Gratitude

Today, I was reminded of the profound importance of gratitude and the immeasurable impact we can have on others’ lives when we give freely, with love, and without expecting anything in return. This realization brought me back to a place I had nearly forgotten—a version of myself that existed before this year’s darkness clouded my heart and before the weight of my struggles made me question the goodness within me.

During a discussion at work about an event we held last week, I found myself reflecting on the nature of love. Love is kind and nurturing. Love is patient and understanding. But most importantly, love becomes most powerful when it is given selflessly, without conditions or expectations. It reminded me of who I truly am—a person who gives and loves unconditionally, not because it is easy, but because it is the essence of who I strive to be.

This year has taken its toll on me in more ways than I ever anticipated. It has left me feeling angry—angry at the world, angry at myself, and angry at the mistakes I’ve made. I have questioned my decisions and regretted the paths I’ve taken that led me astray. It’s easy to blame others for the hardships we endure, but the truth is, many of life’s challenges stem from our own choices. Free will is both a blessing and a burden; it allows us to make mistakes, to take wrong turns, and sometimes to lose ourselves in self-doubt and self-destruction. When life feels unkind and unfair, it’s tempting to give in to bitterness, to allow resentment to take root in our hearts.

But today, I was reminded of a greater truth—love is the antidote to darkness. Loving others, even those we feel are undeserving, requires humility. Who are we to determine another person’s worthiness? Instead of harboring hate, we have the power to forgive, to release the burden of resentment, and to embrace compassion. Everyone is fighting battles we cannot see, coping in ways we may never understand. When we choose love over judgment, kindness over cruelty, and understanding over condemnation, we create space for healing—not just for others, but for ourselves as well.

Today, I remembered that loving others without expecting anything in return is not a loss—it’s a gift. One day, that love comes back tenfold, often in ways we least expect. Through my struggles, I’ve witnessed those I’ve uplifted and cared for return that love to me in my darkest moments, reminding me that kindness never goes unnoticed. It’s a beautiful realization that being authentically myself—someone who gives unconditionally, who challenges others to grow, and who believes in the goodness of people—is worth it, even if I am not perfect.

Giving and loving cautiously yet wholeheartedly is what fills my soul. It’s what keeps me grounded, reminding me to respect others, to practice gratitude, and to cherish the moments that bring joy, no matter how small.

So, with this message, I want to encourage everyone to choose love, to give freely, and to be patient with yourselves and others. Love, in its purest form, can transform lives. It has the power to heal wounds, to unite people, and to remind us of our shared humanity. Let us be kind, forgiving, and grateful—not for recognition, but because the world needs more of it. And in doing so, we become the change we wish to see.