I cherished the experiences my travels brought, forged new friendships, and gained significant insights about myself. In Perth, I made a commitment to myself to become an early childhood educator. Although deeply passionate about the field and eager to make a difference, I was uncertain about how to do so. I immersed myself in my studies, pursuing my degree in hopes of realising my dream of becoming an early childhood teacher.

My teens and twenties were filled with studying, surrounded by readings, assignments, and teaching both adults and children.

2019 was one of the toughest years I faced.

My work was adversely affecting my health, I experienced a friendship breakup, and I was placed in a challenging school with two supervising teachers who held conflicting teaching philosophies. I was so close to finishing my journey at that point, but it felt distant amidst sleepless nights, endless validation-seeking, and an ongoing sense of emptiness within me.

One afternoon, my siblings observed the stress overwhelming me and urged me to take a break. My sister then pulled out the BTS Map of the Soul Persona and asked me to name all the members. I recognised Namjoon, as he was my brother’s favourite. It took me a week to learn their names, and before I knew it, I was looking them up on YouTube, watching ARMY edits, Run BTS, and their music show performances.

My entire year shifted in less than a month.

I completed my placement with outstanding marks, my health significantly improved, and those around me noticed the newfound glow and happiness. I felt rejuvenated and content. Watching BTS travel in Bon Voyage and their Summer and Winter Packages made it feel like I was experiencing an adventure alongside them. Listening to them share their stories and experiences helped me feel less isolated, realising others also shared my feelings. It made me feel acknowledged, cherished, and validated.

ARMY often says BTS shows up when you need them the most, and I truly believe I experienced that.

When COVID hit, I had the chance to pursue my dreams and explore my skills and qualifications through my work. Two years later, I came to realise the dream I once had was no longer what I wanted to pursue. BTS taught me it’s okay to dream and strive for those dreams, but it’s also perfectly fine to mourn the aspirations that didn’t turn out as we envisioned. They provided me with comfort during my struggles, offering a metaphorical life buoy that I could cling to.

Yoongi often mentions it’s alright to let go of dreams we once felt we needed to achieve, if they no longer serve us.

With clarity, I understood I needed to return home and surround myself with those who love and support me no matter what path I choose.

In 2023, I moved back to Perth (I left Perth January 2021 because I got offered a job in a rural area and came back to the city in 2022), I returned to a job that I cherish even more, and was reunited with my family, friends, and ARMY friends who have become like family.

Since then, I’ve travelled to Korea twice. I was lucky enough to win a spot for Jung Kook’s Golden Live on Stage in November 2023 and went back to Seoul to visit his Golden: The Moments exhibition. During these visits, I connected with ARMYs from Melbourne, Sydney, the UK, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Canada, the US, Italy, and many others. Being in Seoul brought me great joy, especially in an ARMY environment. I enjoyed retracing BTS’ journey in Gangnam, from the old Big Hit Building, to Yoojung Sikdang, Hakdong Park, and viewing their handprints outside Jamsil Stadium and at Line Friends in Myeongdong.

Reflecting on BTS’ path, I recognised the countless sacrifices they made to reach their current success.

Looking back at my own experiences, the tough choices I made eventually opened numerous incredible adventures and opportunities.

I will always be thankful to BTS for inspiring and motivating me to persevere, and most importantly, for helping me reconnect with the youth I thought I had lost forever.