Turn everything into gratitude
Nietzsche said, “Love your fate.” What follows love? Gratitude. It’s the salt in a meal, without it even the finest ingredients fall flat.
Thanksgiving is more than 🦃 and 🥧. It’s a celebration of gratitude. As I sit here reflecting on the year, I realize gratitude doesn’t always come wrapped in perfection. Sometimes it arrives disguised as a wreck, other times as a challenge, and occasionally as the strength to let go of what no longer serves you.
🎉 This summer, I earned my second Toastmasters DTM title. Two DTMs in five years. The second piece of apple pie may not taste as sweet as the first. But I am grateful to see showing up and letting time do its magic are the only two skills I need to achieve greatness.
🏃♂️ After a seven-year hiatus, I dusted off my running shoes and started training on half-marathon. It’s not just about the miles; it is about reclaiming a piece of myself. Grief and depression leave a void, whether from losing a loved one or watching someone drift out of your life. I have completed one half-marathon race and signed up for another on New Year’s Day. I am grateful to realize it’s the progress not the goal that brings joy. Every step on the trail is a step toward healing.
🏡 My first year fully dedicated to the Airbnb hosting business. I am grateful for the window it’s opened to see people from all walks of life. People will always surprise you.
💔 Watching my son fully embrace his college life and step away from mine has been the hardest part. Turns out, life is a book of ever-changing chapters. When it’s time to turn the page you don’t get a choice. It’s a year that I learned to move forward and embrace my new chapter, too. I’m deeply grateful for the days we shared before the page turned.
🙅♂️ 🙅♂️ This year, I finally set sail on the boat of: “Life’s too short to spend on people who don’t respect, appreciate, or value you.” I walked away from people and groups where respect was absent, and for that, I’m profoundly grateful. Saying no isn’t rejection — it’s self-preservation and a declaration of self-worth.
🦃🍂 🍷As I raise a toast this Thanksgiving, it’s to a year of messy, imperfect progress. I’m grateful for the laughter that softened the tough moments, the strength to set boundaries, and the courage to keep showing up even when life feels heavy.
🙏Each morning, I choose to wake up and be grateful for the life I still have.
