Wèilái

During my recent visit to Shanghai, China, I had the opportunity to explore The Bund district, where I dedicated a considerable amount of time to capturing its captivating essence through photography. This district is characterized by two distinct riverside banks that starkly contrast each other in terms of architectural style. On the east bank, one can witness Neoclassical and Baroque influences. In stark contrast, the west bank showcases a mesmerizing collection of futuristic architecture, including the Oriental Pearl Tower that comes alive at night, reminiscent of the visually stunning scenes depicted in Ridley Scott's renowned film, Blade Runner.

The concept of the future requires some consideration. It remains uncertain and can evoke a range of emotions, including hope, anticipation, and excitement, as well as stress, anxiety, and pressure. As individuals, we constantly strive towards a future that surpasses our current circumstances, driven by the desire for improvement. While this goal-oriented mindset can propel us toward personal growth, it can also have detrimental effects on our well-being. By fixating solely on what lies ahead, we inadvertently neglect the present moment and fail to appreciate our current situation. In doing so, we risk losing sight of our happiness. Perhaps, if we pause to acknowledge our current position and express gratitude for the journey we have undertaken thus far, we may find that the need to relentlessly push forward diminishes. The future will always be ahead of us, but the pace at which we pursue it ultimately determines our level of contentment.

Wèilái is the traditional Chinese word for the future.