-Submission 1-
In a world that moves so quickly, it’s difficult to pause and assess the areas of our lives where we want to grow. Life often feels like it’s rushing by, and taking time to reflect can seem like a luxury we don’t have. However, growth requires the ability to stop, reflect, and understand ourselves on a deeper level. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have had to experience personal growth. These opportunities show up in various forms throughout my life. Sometimes, it’s through the wisdom my parents share, their experiences offering valuable lessons. Other times, it’s in my daily interactions with my children, who help me see the world through their youthful eyes. Whether it’s by listening to a podcast or reading a book, I’m always finding ways to learn and grow. Every day, I strive to improve, to be better, and to continue becoming a better version of myself.
Personal growth isn’t just about understanding ourselves more deeply. It also helps us form more meaningful connections with those around us. When we grow, we become better equipped to re-evaluate our priorities and be more present in our lives. It’s through this growth that we learn to be more intentional in our relationships and interactions with others. I’ve learned that growth doesn’t just happen in a moment of clarity, but rather a continuous process. It’s a choice I make every day to reflect, to learn, and to apply those lessons to my life.
This year, I had the opportunity to step away from my 9-5 job and pursue something that aligns more closely with my passions. I’m currently in a program to become a certified parent coach. After being a parent for 15 years, I’m still learning new ways to approach my children and improve as a mother. The journey of parenting is never-ending. It’s filled with challenges and learning experiences, and it’s something I’m constantly evolving in. I believe this program is a gift for not only myself, but for my children and for anyone who interacts with them. By continuing to grow as a parent, I’m setting an example of self-improvement and resilience for them to follow.
Parenting is undeniably one of the most challenging roles anyone will take on. There’s a quote that sits on my kitchen window that reads, “The most important work you will ever do is within the walls of your home.” This quote speaks to me deeply, reminding me that no matter how challenging the journey is, the work I do as a mother is of utmost importance. It’s a reminder that the growth I’m experiencing is not only for my own benefit but for the benefit of my family. I am thankful every day for the opportunities to challenge myself, learn, and grow not only as a mother, but as a person.
-Submission 2-
Every day is a gift, filled with lessons, love, and moments that shape us.
I’m grateful for the strength in challenges, the joy in friendships/connections, and the hope that keeps us moving forward.
May we always find reasons to appreciate life and cherish each other.
-Submission 3-
I am grateful to be healthy and in a position I can possibly help other people. I am grateful for my supportive family who pushes me everyday to be the best version of myself I can be. I am grateful for the solid foundation of values, skills and fortunate background I have been raised into and hope I can pay things forward to help others in the ways I feel like I have been helped. I heard a TED talk recently that discussed approaching life in a way that is ‘whole hearted’, being ‘vulnerable’ and being okay with it, ‘leaning into gratitude’ and finally believing each of us is ‘enough’. I am grateful I work in an environment that supports learning to improve ourselves in a compassionate and uplifting way. I am grateful to be able to do research in an area that needs progress since it is so far behind progress and impacts lives of so many women, babies, and families worldwide. I am trying to measure a problem so people know it exists – so we make an impact and change lives. As a great mentor of mine often says – Onwards!
-Submission 4-
Life is sweet, yet difficult, and full of adventures. It has ups and downs and at times is very spicy.
I am the most grateful to have my life, my faith and my loved ones.
I am also more than grateful for all the blessings that I have had in my life.
In order to meet life challenges, certainly faith plays a big role. The guidance I felt through my faith has no words for appreciation. The love and help I have received from my near loved ones I cannot describe as it is beyond gratitude.
These feelings and blessings are very enriching, and I am a firm believer in gratitude. Alhamdullilah.
-Submission 5-
I am grateful for my health and the health of my family and friends, and the time I get to spend with them. I am grateful for my job and the opportunities it affords me. I am grateful for the spring weather and getting to enjoy time in nature. I am grateful for the chance I get everyday to better myself. I am grateful for my condo not burning down when I accidentally left the stove on yesterday!
-Submission 6-
About 45 days ago, one morning I woke up with neck pain radiating down to my right arm. The pain was so bad that it woke me up a few times during the night for about a week. I am so grateful and thankful to be pain-free for several days now and able to sleep through the night.
I have been going to physical therapy, which has been very successful. I was even able to play tennis a few times.
It’s so great to be in good health.
-Submission 7-
Gratitude leads to contentment which is the ultimate true happiness within. As a Muslim, we know that gratitude is part of our faith as Allah mentioned in the Quran: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]” (14:7)
And Prophet Muhammad s.a.w also taught us to thank others: Abu Huraira reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Whoever does not thank people has not thanked Allah.” Source: Sunan Abī Dāwūd 4811 Grade: Sahih (authentic) according to Al-Albani
Sometimes we focus on thanking people that have helped us through difficult times, who have given us gifts, who make us smile, and who bring joy to our life. But I have learned to also be thankful to the people that traumatized us. Through my healing journey, I have learned to thank Allah for the painful experiences that I have been through and the people that caused trauma in my life. The reason being is the wounds within leads to strength within after we heal through.
Gratitude is not just through words only but it is also through action.
Friends that are there for you during difficult times are the real ones. For example, in March 2023, my FB was hacked, and I was able to receive full support from few friends that stood by my side and helped me through it. One of these friends also stood by my side multiple times before. I am thankful for having her in my life.
Alhamdullilah for everything.