I've realised recently when talking with my little brother about 'immaterial benefits' that what I really value are family and friendships. Basically, spending time with people. Its not really that I didn't value them in the past; more that I've clarified in my mind what is important to me.
When I think back to my best memories, they don't include moments like when I won a soccer game (a 'cup final') on computer coming back from 3-0 down at half time. However exciting that might have been at the time, it just doesn't fill me with a buzz that lasts hours or even days that comes from real interaction with real people. My favourite times inevitably include having a good time with friends or with family; shopping/movie/hanging out last friday with cgs friends and the kununurra family trip being recent examples.
This might come across as strange to people who know me and don't see me as the most social type, but trust me, it's true.
This is why recent weeks have boosted my happiness; lunch at uni with new and old friends instead of newspapers, and nights out with friends instead of with a computer screen. Stuff which probably sounds quite standard to a lot of you, but more a privilege than a routine for me.
Thanks to these people who brighten up my day :)
