SEC-S30W3: The things I am thankful for

Gratitude is a powerful habit that shifts our focus from what we lack to what is available. In 2026, I have come to realize that even the smallest things in life deserve appreciation. As I reflect on my journey so far this year, my heart is filled with gratitude for many reasons...

Firstly, Life is one thing we can't appreciate when we are no more, so I am grateful for the gift of life. Waking each day in sound mind and body is something I no longer take for granted. Life itself is the foundation upon which every other blessing stands. Despite challenges, being alive gives me opportunity to learn and become a better version of myself.

Being in good health even in the world with so many illness, is a blessing I deeply appreciate. Having the strength to carry out my daily activities is worth appreciating. Achieving my dreams, utilizing opportunities and meeting interesting people who turned out amazing friends are all part of what I am grateful for.

Secondly, I am grateful for the gift of time! You know, time is one of the most valuable resources we have as living beings. I recently buried my uncle who passed on last year, while at the mortuary, I kept staring at his lifeless body lying helpless. I remembered when this same man was living and working as an army officer, when we visited him on sundays and gist with him and his family, but now his time were over the moment he gave up the ghost.

Obviously without time, I cannot live, breathe, dream, archive, acquire, like without time, I can't spend a moment here. It is true that no one knows tomorrow, but we have to make the most of our time while living. That is why I am grateful for how I have been able to use it more wisely this year. Every moment spent learning, resting, connecting with others, working has contributed to my growth and I am grateful.

My family

Thirdly, I am grateful for my family. Their unwavering love, support, and encouragement has continued to be my backbone. Through both difficult moments and good time, they help grately in prayers which keep strengthening me to keep up.

My family will annoy me with some little attitudes that may not be necessary, but when they love, it lasts forever. The moments we stay together to plan and build, the moments we travelled together, the moments we gist at moonlight, the moments we share ideas and eat together, these moments always bring to my mind that family is something to be grateful for.

A lot of people without family feel alone sometimes, especially when life happen. I have witnessed a speech from someone about how much she wished she had just one member of her family still with her. At that moment, I felt a cool breeze down my spine and I remembered my family and how supportive they have being. I am so grateful for having my family still with me.

Standing strong!

Lastly, I am grateful for the various challenges I have faced this year (2026). At that time, it was so difficult as though I was never going to come out of it. It was overwhelming me at a time and I kept wondering why? But today, I am grateful it has helped me build resilience, strength, and patience.

It didn't look like I was going to overcome, but I kept growing each day in strength despite the pressure that was pulling me down. I cried all night hoping to wake up in a new slate, but the challenge kept pressing and overwhelming me.

Today, I can testify because I came out victorious. This process taught me so many things and also built me, so I am grateful!

In conclusion, 2026 has been a year filled with blessings, lessons, and growth. Gratitude has helped me see the beauty in both the small and big aspects of life. As I continue this journey, I choose to remain thankful knowing that everyday is a gift and everytime is an opportunity and a valuable gift and not forgetting that every experience has value.

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I invite @eliany @mariami @pandora2010