Money....

 Yogita and I had a very nice conversation during our walk yesterday (6.7km walk!) about money. We are of the opinion that we need to be self-sufficient, not to run after riches in this world. What will having millions and millions of dollars really do for us? A government could decide that because we believe in Jehovah and in his word the bible that we are against the established order. They could then sanction our accounts. Boom a digital block means we are as poor as a beggar in the street. Money did not save Steven Jobs. Money has a place. It can afford comfort but we need to not allow it to rule our everyday pursuits. 

It is a difficult balance for us right now. However, in time we will find that balance. Right now interests rates in India are favorable for us. Of course, we need to do more research on this topic. I think that it is best to think first, and then slowly act. I have made the mistake in the past of rushing in and making decisions too rapidly and I ended up wasting time, and money.

When buying a car we will research for a year or more until we make our choice. Even if it comes to a place to live or work we need to take time before making a move. It could save us a lot of trouble.

/tata

2021 is ending...

 This year was surely a strange one. We all thought that we could get on with our lives in a "normal" way. Instead, we are all caring proof of vaccination and even that is not enough. Soon I will be required to take a 3rd "booster" shot. Science does not support the need for a third shot. I think a lot of money is being made from the fear of this new omicron variant. Deaths are on the rise in South Korea of course nothing like in other nations.

This year seemed to fly by. We have been fortunate in South Korea. However, family members in America have not been so fortunate. Two cousins passed away within days of each other. My father lost his second wife to this virus as well. 

We have made plans to be ready to leave South Korea. Our aim is to push for work from home jobs, while Yogita makes use of her Korean fluency to get a nice position in her hometown. So now that we are at the end of the year preparing for another one may we all get through the next year as well.

/tata

A very Strange couple of days.

 There are days when living in South Korea can seem like any other place. Then are days that remind you that yes you are living in South Korea. Yesterday, I finished my class at the normal time. I was handling some paperwork like I do every Thursday. However, this time I get called to the front desk. Paul my friend and boss is standing there looking worried, and annoyed. I am then informed that we have to watch three videos. They are required for Teachers or any jobs where one is in contact with children. 

The deadline? Today Friday at 7pm. Ok, that is not such a big deal. But actually, it is. You see I needed to register at two different websites. This is no easy task as an ex-pat. The menus are totally in Korean. It took some time but now I was able to fully unlock my phone's services.

Previously, I could not use Samsung pay or Kakao pay. I could not authenticate my identity. Now my smartphone is my wallet. I can go shopping online at the click of a button. For example, before I needed to buy Amazon gift cards then go shopping. Now? I can just start shopping when let's say there is a really good deal on some product I have my eye on. 

So it was crazy difficult but now life here is going to more "free" than before.

/tata

We are living in times of great distress

 Right now I am living in a very stable place. I am earning more money than I ever have. Actually, I have made more but I worked FAR more hours. I am able to spend a lot more time with my family. My wife and I are getting closer year after year. Yet we are all in great distress. There is a possibility of two wars that can start at any moment. We should not ignore the fact that proxy wars are being fought right now as I type this. These two wars that I am talking about will bring great nations to their knees. It could lead to widespread devastation and death. Of course, I am talking about Russia and China. Russia is looking to regain territory lost after the fall of the Soviet Union. While China is trying to "retake" Taiwan. Both issues point to a war in which the United States and its allies will be drawn into a conflict with both nations. 

So while I am sitting over here feeling stable, I know what dangers are actually out there. Money in a bank is not safe if you are not in the one percent. They are the ones really controlling this world. I read my bible and I smile because finally after being told all my life that Jehovah's day is coming. It is REALLY coming to pass. I can see it now. The signs are everywhere. Too bad many wish to live in this system of things. 

/tata