Deric Lai

To be fully present in each unfolding experience, I look forward to discovering the profound richness in the tapestry of everyday life whenever I seek it — with or without someone.

“It gets easier” — and I truly hope it does. I understand everything has its process, but dealing with a difficult reality is an unavoidable part of the human experience that sometimes feels far from humanizing.

It’s about the journey, not the destination — right?

It’s a journey of self-discovery and perhaps realization for some that they aren’t truly themselves in a “mojo dojo casa house.

The conflict over the “wedding country” is a reminder of the competitive relationship between siblings. It nods to our own experiences with family, reminding us how frustrating it can be when dealing with differing opinions between siblings. 

Does it ever feel like the world moves too fast and you just can’t keep up? Or did it ever occur to you that there’s more to see in our surroundings than what meets the eye? 

If he’s distracted and daydreaming — chances are, he’s not cheating on you. He just might be thinking about the Roman Empire.

Life was simple — I had less thinking to do, less responsibilities to worry about. For a moment, those memories of the past feel relieving to reminisce about.

Growing up, we’ve all heard of “faking it till you make it,” and that included putting on a smile to lock in the pretend confidence so it led us to self-assurance. Hysterically, the internet has elevated this idea in the philosophy of “delulu,” and Gen Z has become inclined to adopt delusions to find motivation, humor and solace in life’s uncertainties. 

I’m hoping to make life as pleasant as possible this semester — especially if it means I get to play the insufferable main character of my indie film.