FOUR THINGS I'M GRATEFUL FOR

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This year has been a rollercoaster for me. I've seen a lot of things happen, I've watched myself grow tremendously from where I was last year, more than I could even think possible. Circumstances stretched and pushed me to new limits but I am still standing.

One thing I would forever be grateful for this year would be the birth of my nephew . The little boy is indeed a joy giver. I watched my sister and her husband struggle to keep him alive while he was still tender, and now he is well and hearty and I couldn't be more grateful.

Also, this year, I learned how to cook and prepare several traditional dishes and soups. Last year, I didn't even know how to cook anything other than boiling water and probably noodles. But the situation forced me to come into my full potential over the course of this year. I learned how to cook, manage a home and take the role of a mother in the span of four months. While it wasn't an easy task. It helped me see things from my parents perspective and how life is not always a bed of roses. It helped me take up responsibilities and own up to them. I would be forever grateful for the person it shaped me to become.

Another thing I am grateful for is the gift of life. Being alive to see each passing day is indeed a blessing. Not everyone gets to experience this grace. I've seen and watched people die helplessly this year. Both loved ones, close friends and distant acquaintances. It wasn't easy watching them transition into another life. But that is the thing about death, it knocks on your door unexpectedly. It took my dear friend prematurely. A young beautiful girl in her early twenties, so full of life and charisma. The aftermath of it left me in shock and in tears. I'm still trying to come to terms with the fact that she is gone till this very day.

But I've also come to the realization that each day, we all wake up to see the sun, the bright sky and a brand new day, we should be grateful. It's not a right, we have. Because death can come at any time, in a number of ways. So to be alive is a blessing. The fact that I am part of the living, is something I am grateful for everyday of my life.

The last thing that I am grateful for is my family. I always feel that I am so blessed to have a family that is very supportive and caring. People who would go at any length to help you, and make sure you're well and hearty. I have never felt more alive than when I am with my family. Over the years, I've been through some serious sickness that really brought me down. But my family was with me through it all. My mother stayed by my side. Never leaving me for one second. My siblings called constantly, checking up on me, even though some lived far away. Having a family that truly cares, is a blessing and I am grateful for that. Nothing beats a loving family. I wake up each day, and I think, I am honoured to be a part of my family and even in my next life, I would still choose them over again.

In conclusion, life in itself is something I am grateful for. Also, being surrounded by people who love and cherish me is one thing I will always be so grateful for. Looking at how far I have come this year, despite my silent struggles and battles, I couldn't be more grateful for the achievements I have achieved this year. And right now, I only hope for a better 2026.