Pom in Oz with Derek Goforth: You can seek comfort in the familiar and strive for personal growth at same time

As I stand at the precipice of my fifties, I’ve come to recognise the value of familiarity in a world that often seems to spin faster than we can keep up. A father of three, I have developed a penchant for finding comfort in the well-trodden paths of life while still nurturing personal growth. To some — my family included — my quirks might seem odd. I often find myself revisiting the same film or TV episode repeatedly. My snack of choice rarely deviates from the familiar, and I have a designated seat and a beloved, well-worn T-shirt that have become my second skin. These seemingly mundane habits serve as my anchors in a sea of uncertainty. In a world that pushes us toward novelty and change, there’s a peculiar comfort in the known. The familiar film or TV episode is like a warm embrace from an old friend. It’s a soothing refuge where the characters and plot are as comforting as a cherished bedtime story. In the simple act of re-watching, I find solace, and I’m reminded of the comforting stability of life’s constants. My snack choice may lack variety, but it provides a reliable source of pleasure. The satisfying crunch and familiar taste offer a brief respite from life’s complexities. In those moments, I am reminded that sometimes, simplicity is the ultimate form of indulgence. Then, there’s my favourite seat, the one that has moulded itself to the contours of my body over the years. It’s my sanctuary, a place where I can lose myself in a book, contemplate life’s mysteries, or simply watch the world go by. In the familiarity of that seat, I’ve found a safe haven where my thoughts can roam freely, unburdened by the need for novelty. Yet, while I find immense comfort in these familiar routines, I also recognise the importance of change and growth. As a father, I’ve witnessed my children transform from fragile infants to independent individuals with their own dreams and aspirations. As a teacher, I’ve marvelled at the ever-evolving landscape of my field, where new discoveries push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of education. In my fifties, I’ve come to understand that comfort in the familiar doesn’t preclude the pursuit of personal growth. It’s the stability of these familiar rituals that provides the courage and confidence to explore new horizons. Just as a tree’s roots anchor it firmly to the ground, allowing its branches to reach for the sky, the comfort of the known empowers me to embrace change and seek new experiences. Derek Goforth is an expat of 13 years and father of three living and working in Geraldton.