A bit antisocial, I used to loathe school, sports and many other normal things. One thing that I was never tired of, though, was constantly comparing myself with my peers. When someone around me got new footwear, I would buy a new pair too, often more expensive than theirs. I always went out of my way to outshine those around me in terms of consumption. With my ego fed in that fashion, I felt more respected.

During one Chinese New Year holiday, my father took me to visit one of my childhood buddies. I had not seen Alex for years. We had been best friends and playmates the years we were together residing at the same neighbourhood. Before I met Alex, I got very excited. I expected that my friend would be wearing famous brands and designer clothes. Their affluent family, having been running a prosperous business for years, now have their home in a southern Chinese metropolis, Guangzhou, where Alex himself is attending an elite school.

The moment I saw him, however, my expectations were smashed. My friend dressed plain. There was no trace of posh attire whatsoever on Alex. His shoes were even cheaper than mine. At the get-together, as I was chatting with Alex, it dawned on me that what matters to a person is his content rather than his exterior.

After the reunion, I changed. Today I no longer crave for luxuries or famous brands. Nor do I engage in silent vanity matches any more. Instead, I feel fuller inside than ever.