2016 was quite the year. In just 12 months, both the Philippines and the USA had very controversial elections. The United Kingdom left the European Union in a move called Brexit. Muhammad Ali, David Bowie, and Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago passed away. Despite the dramatic things that happened this year, there is still plenty to be thankful for.
Why should we be thankful? Being thankful makes you realize that you have many blessings. Remember the book The Secret? According to its author Rhonda Byrnes, the universe operates on the law of attraction, and that positive thinking can improve your wealth, health, and happiness.
Take for example this video by AirAsia. The world’s best low-cost airline produced a video showing how gratitude can greatly affect the moods of others:
I was inspired by the video to list down the people I am thankful for. They made this year special by being there for me, having fun with me, and teaching me things.
Here are the 5 people I want to say #ThankYou to this 2016:
1. To the bosses who pushed me to be the best
This year, I made a life-changing decision to switch careers. In my previous job as a copywriter, I worked with bosses who kept challenging me to become a better writer. At first I was angry because there were times when I felt I wasn’t good enough, until I realized that they only wanted me to be the best version of me. Bosses don’t hate their employees personally. They were pushing me because they know I can do better. I learned not to have a defeatist attitude. I saw this quote online: don’t complain, just work harder. It’s a mantra that I apply in my new job.
2. To friends who supported my passion
When I quit my day job, I had more time to focus on my personal blog. I’m lucky to have friends who support it by reading it, sharing their thoughts about it, and and trying out the things I recommended. I’m also thankful for the friends who trust me enough to give me rakets on the side. Kindness always begets kindness: be kind to other people and they will be kind to you, too.
3. To my family, who never left my side
I am thankful for the gift of family. I have a family I know I can always count on through thick and thin, and I am thankful for this every day. Breakups happen, friendships end, but family is forever. Remember that Lilo and Stitch line: Ohana means family, and family means nobody gets left behind or forgotten. Spend more time with your family, because they’re the only ones you’ve got when everyone’s gone.
4. To the ex who taught me things
Breakups are tough. But as they say, hindsight is 20/20, and you will soon realize why you had to let go. People come into our lives for a reason, and maybe my ex served his purpose and he had to go. What’s important is that you figured out what their purpose in your life is, and that you remember the things you learned. What did he teach me? Patience, and lots of it.
5. To God
The one person I haven’t forgotten to thank is God, who made all of these things possible. Even if the year was crazy, I received a lot of blessings from Him. I may not be deserving of everything He has given me, but I still am thankful that I am where I am today.
So let’s be grateful. It might just be the most meaningful Christmas gift.
Who are you thankful for this Christmas? Share your thoughts below!
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