meijia
It’s December again, and this year feels warmer than the past ones. As I look through my photos, I think about the places I’ve been, the shows and anime I watched, and the moments I shared with people I care about. Everything comes back so clearly. This year also gave me many small but meaningful first times. And when I look back on all of it, my word for 2025 is warmth.
2025 Recap: Tracing the Warm Moments
1. “Sound Of Rain” by LANY
This song comes from the winter album of my favorite band, LANY. Even though it wasn’t the main track, the first time I heard it, it completely captured my attention. Every time I listen to it, I feel a quiet comfort, like it’s wrapping around me in the chilly winter months.
2. “Natural” by Teens in Times
This single, released in spring by my favorite boy group, carries a message that really stayed with me: beauty cannot be defined. I think in today’s world, that kind of reminder is not only necessary but also heartwarming. It’s inspiring to see public figures use their platform to share positive ideas, guiding their fans toward a better understanding of themselves and the world.
3.“homura” by LiSA
This is the ending theme of Demon Slayer: Mugen Train, written for Kyojuro Rengoku,, the Flame Hashira. When the film final scenes played, I couldn’t hold back my tears. His sacrifice, the words he said to the three kids, his gentle smile, and then this song playing right after. It was overwhelming. Listening to it, I could feel the weight of his courage and warmth all over again.
Music in 2025
First Times, Along the Way
My year was filled with first times.
The first time I passed my scooter license test.
The first time I got my ears pierced.
The first time I had a double major.
The first time I left Asia.
The first time I touched a puppy.
The first time I owned my own camera.
The first time I watched LANY live in concert.
The first time I took a hot air balloon.
The first time I went on a jeep safari.
The first time I baked a Basque cheesecake.
The first time I joined the camp.
The first time I tried balut.
The first time I went to the movies alone.
In the middle of ordinary days, all these firsts quietly appeared. And it was these “first times” that gave me the courage to move forward, to try again, and to believe that next year will bring even more firsts waiting for me.
2025, Through the Places I’ve Been
Hsinchu
Hsinchu is my home base, a city where time feels familiar. I spend my days with family and meet friends here, and every reunion reminds me of a quiet truth: long time no see, and soon, long time no see again. This used to be the city where we met every day. Now, it has become the city where we meet again. Time changes the meaning of places more than we realize.
Yilan
Whenever winter break arrives, I find myself thinking of Yilan. No plans, no fixed schedule. Just walking, breathing in the scent of a hot spring town, and letting my pace slow down. In a life that often moves too fast, Yilan gives me space to rest.
Chiayi
I’ve lived in Chiayi for over a year now. Life here is quiet and steady. I go to school, occasionally meet relatives, and settle into a rhythm that feels grounded. There is a sense of rural calm here that gently holds everyday life.
Kaohsiung
One night in Kaohsiung stays with me. At the Kaohsiung Music Center, I watched my first LANY concert — a night I still think of as the best I’ve ever had. I remember Paul saying, “Tonight is gonna be the best night in your fucking life.” For me, it truly was.
Türkiye
In the summer, I traveled to Türkiye, often described as the crossroads of the world. Napoleon once said that if the world were a single country, Istanbul would be its capital. Being there, I felt more than landscapes. I felt warmth, cultural layers, and human connection, all quietly settling into my memory.
Vietnam
As someone who loves pho, visiting Vietnam felt long overdue. Only after arriving did I realize that pho isn’t the only highlight — coffee holds just as much importance. Days were filled with food, coffee, and coconut drinks, and that summer unfolded slowly, one simple pleasure at a time.