SEC-S30W3: The things I am thankful for.

Beauty is better to begin with in 2026, that seeking out the quiet gratitude, instead of the dramatic one. In order to make this sound more intimate and personal as well as keeping all that grounded and humble tone, I have tightened the flow into a more introspective tone.

The moment of a silent thanksgiving.

As 2026 commences its own share of surprises and stresses, I have been seeking out another way of looking at the issue. The gratitude does not necessarily need to be strident or dramatic, and on the contrary, I am also discovering that the most all sustaining gratitude is silent and lurks within the little things that keep me going when the road becomes steep.

In my case, I have three pillars that are holding me down at the moment:

The People Who Show Up.

Firstly, I am lucky that I have people to support me. It is simply simpler since you have people who are ready when your burden is too big and rejoice in the little achievements. These are my support systems be it in the case of family, friends or workmates. The feeling that one believes in me is a tremendous power, especially when I am not able to believe in myself. Not only do I feel that I am not alone to deal with these challenges, but I am also reminded of this as long as they are around.

The Lessons in the Struggle.

[Me and my sisters]

I am also learning to be thankful of those hard seasons. Although they do not make them feel like gifts at the time, I can observe how they are moulding me. The obstacles that I have faced have taught me patience, resilience and creativity better than my victories ever could. I am finding that the finest of me is usually created when things get off course. I am making those bad days part of my gratitude since it is exactly those days that make me ready what is coming next.

[My mum and siblings]

The Beauty of the Ordinary.

Lastly, I am making an effort to lean into the quiet comforts, which are the things that are not making any noise, but are enabling me to live. A quiet morning, a hot breakfast, a secure home or even the technology that keeps me in touch with the loved ones. It is easy to miss these small, everyday happiness, but they give someone an impression of stability when the world seems crazy. They are the sweet shots that there is a peace to be discovered even during a hectic year.

Bringing on the rest of 2026, I have with me all three of the following items: those people around me, the development in my struggles, and the easy things in the daily. Concentrating on what makes me stronger, I am now stronger to face whatever the rest of the year has to offer.

I'm inviting @goodybest, @abdullahw2 and @m-fdo to participate.