Grateful Moments

This week I am grateful for…

51. Raindrops While Sleeping

52. Birdwatching from My Window

53. A Walk to the Park

54.Playing Basketball Again

55. Sunsets from My Apartment Window

#51: Raindrops While Sleeping

There’s something magical about falling asleep to the soft rhythm of raindrops tapping against the window. The gentle sound creates a feeling of calm, making the blankets feel even warmer and more inviting. This week, I found myself especially grateful for those peaceful, rain-filled nights.

#52: Birdwatching from My Window

One of the small joys of working remotely is catching glimpses of nature right outside my window. On certain days, I get to watch birds searching for food, hopping and fluttering about, each with their own quiet purpose. It’s a simple yet beautiful reminder to slow down and appreciate the present moment.

#53: A Walk to the Park

This week, my partner and I took a long walk—about 35 minutes—to a nearby park, soaking in the sunshine and fresh air. At the park, we spotted a beaver, ducks, and an array of birds, each adding to the joy of the day. The warmth in the air made me even more excited for the season ahead, a taste of the beautiful days to come.

#54: Playing Basketball Again

Few things make me feel more alive than stepping onto the basketball court. The energy, the teamwork, the friendly competition—it’s all so invigorating. This week, I had the chance to play again, breaking a sweat and reliving that sense of flow. I’m hoping for more games this season!

#55: Sunsets from My Apartment Window

I feel incredibly lucky to have a view of the sunset right from my apartment window. Each evening, I remind myself to pause, take it in, and appreciate the moment. We never know how many more sunsets we’ll get to witness, so I try to savor each one.

Weekly Spotlight

This week, I’m reflecting on a quote that feels especially relevant and inspiring:

“The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don’t have any.” – Alice Walker

This week I am grateful for…

46. Dessert Delight

47. Lost and Found

48. Taste of Spring: Part 2

49. Building Workout Consistency

50. Countdown to Vacation!

#46: Dessert Delight

This week, I had an interesting conversation with my coworkers: What’s your biggest vice when it comes to food — salty snacks like chips and pretzels, or sweet treats like desserts? One coworker didn’t hesitate and said, “All of the above!” — I respect the honesty. For me, it’s a no-brainer. I’m a dessert person through and through, especially if ice cream is involved.

This week, my girlfriend and I treated  ourselves to an unforgettable black raspberry black bottom pie — basically, heaven on a plate. Picture this: velvety black raspberry ice cream resting on a rich chocolate base, crowned with a fluffy layer of whipped cream. Every bite was like receiving a French kiss from a dessert goddess. Honestly, there’s nothing quite like a taste that’s bad for the heart but so, so good for the soul.

#47: Lost and Found

You know that sinking feeling when you realize you’ve lost something important? Your stomach drops, you frantically search everywhere, and dread slowly creeps in as you face the possibility that it might be gone for good. Yep — that happened to me this week.

I had just received my new car registration in the mail (straight from Uncle Sam) and hurriedly stuffed it in my pocket as I carried a load of recycling to the bin. Later, when I went to grab it — poof! Gone. I turned my house and car inside out, retraced my steps, and finally came to terms with the fact that I probably tossed it out with the recycling. Cue the disappointment.

The next day, as I walked to my car, I decided to glance around one more time. And there it was — lying on the ground just a few feet from my car, completely intact. It hadn’t rained the night before (thank goodness!), or it would’ve been ruined. I couldn’t believe my luck! Talk about a small miracle. Note to self: don’t carry important documents with an armful of trash.

#48: Taste of Spring: Part 2

Spring is teasing us! I spotted a glorious 60-degree day in the forecast this week — sunny and warm, a little taste of the season to come. I’ve already decided I’m heading to the park that day, no question about it. There’s something magical about those first warm days after a long winter — birds chirping, people out walking, and just that fresh spring energy in the air. Stay tuned for more spring adventures!

#49: Building Workout Consistency

I’m proud of myself for being more consistent with my workouts lately! You know that saying, The heaviest weight in the gym is the front door? Yeah… I feel that. But once I get myself there, I never regret it. There’s something empowering about pushing through a tough workout — I always leave feeling accomplished, strong, and ready to conquer the day.

I’m starting to appreciate how exercise not only boosts my physical health but also clears my mind. It’s like a reset button. Slowly but surely, I’m building a routine that sticks.

#50: Countdown to Vacation!

I’m officially in countdown mode for an upcoming trip to somewhere warm and tropical in just a couple of weeks! Every day brings me closer to beaches, sunshine, adventure, and pure relaxation. I can almost feel the ocean breeze already. Can’t wait to share more about this adventure soon — stay tuned!

Weekly Spotlight 

This week’s spotlight is an episode from the NPR show My Unsung Hero titled:
“Most People Are Good”: How a Stranger’s Words Became a Family Mantra.
It’s a heartwarming reminder of the kindness that exists in the world. Take a listen below!

https://www.npr.org/2025/02/25/nx-s1-5302886/unsung-hero-strangers-words-family-mantra-nervous-flying

Leave a comment below with what brought you joy this week.

This week I am grateful for…

41. A Healthy Arrival

42. A Taste of Spring

43. A Surprise Gift (Again!)

44. Fresh Kenyan Tea

45. An Unexpected Reunion

 

#41: A Healthy Arrival

This week brought the sweetest news—my friend welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world! I couldn’t be more thrilled. Welcome to the family, little niece! I cannot wait to meet you!

#42: A Taste of Spring

New England winters can be brutal, but this week gifted us a rare and glorious day—50 degrees and partly sunny! It was a welcome break from the freezing temperatures, and I made the most of it by taking a walk in the park with my girlfriend. The crisp air, the warmth on our faces, and the sight of people out with their dogs made it feel like a little preview of spring. I know better than to get my hopes up too soon, but I’ll savor every moment of these small weather blessings.

#43: A Surprise Gift (Again!)

Have you ever found a gift card you completely forgot about? That happened to me this week. I was going through my stuff, when I stumbled upon one that took me a second to recognize. And just like that, it was like receiving the gift all over again! Now I get the fun of deciding how to spend it.

#44: Fresh Kenyan Tea

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—there is no tea like Kenyan tea. Call me biased, but no other tea quite hits the spot. The aroma, the rich flavor, the perfect caffeine kick, and that splash of milk—it’s a tiny cup of bliss. This week, I’m especially excited because my mom is bringing me a fresh supply straight from Kenya. Just thinking about it makes me feel comforted and nostalgic.

#45: An Unexpected Reunion

Life has a funny way of bringing people back into our paths when we least expect it. This week, as I was leaving the gym, I ran into my high school biology teacher. She retired a year after I graduated and has been living her best life—traveling, working out, and spending time with loved ones. Seeing her so happy and fulfilled was heartwarming. It reminded me that life keeps evolving, and there’s so much to look forward to.

Weekly Spotlight 

This week’s spotlight is a Chinese proverb:

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.

 

This week I am grateful for…

36. Heartfelt Catch-Ups with Family and Friends

37. The Magic of Walking on Snow

38. A Whisper of Spring

39. The Sweet Sound of Birds Returning

40. Unwinding with My Favorite Shows

 

#36: Heartfelt Catch-Ups with Family and Friends

This week was filled with warmth, laughter, and the joy of reconnecting with loved ones. Is there anything better than reminiscing over old stories, sharing a delicious meal, and feeling the energy of good company? These moments remind me how precious quality time is, and I’m deeply grateful for the people who make life richer.

#37: The Magic of Walking on Snow

There’s something oddly satisfying about the crisp crunch of fresh snow underfoot. I’ve been savoring brisk walks in my snow boots, soaking in the winter stillness. One evening, I was lucky enough to catch a breathtaking sunset—the sky shinning in shades of orange, geese and crows gliding against the horizon. That fleeting moment just before the sun dips below the trees? It gets me every time. The photo below does not do it justice

#38: A Whisper of Spring

The temperatures are rising—just slightly—but in New England, that can be deceiving. While I know better than to trust the weather just yet, I can’t help but feel a sense of anticipation. The official start of spring is less than a month away, and I’m ready to welcome the shift with open arms.

#39: The Sweet Sound of Birds Returning

With the first hints of warmth come the early songs of songbirds. This week, I heard the gentle cooing of doves, a sure sign that spring is on its way. Their soft, rhythmic calls bring an instant smile to my face, a reminder that soon the world will be buzzing with new life and outdoor adventures.

#40: Unwinding with My Favorite Shows

Few things beat the simple joy of curling up with a great TV show, a bowl of popcorn, and my partner by my side. Right now, I’m fully invested in Severance and Ted Lasso—two wildly different but equally captivating series. Taking time to unwind and enjoy a good story feels like a little luxury, and I’m grateful for these cozy, cinematic escapes.

Weekly Spotlight 

This week’s spotlight is a story a read in a book a couple of years ago:

There was once a businessman who was sitting by the beach in a small Brazilian village.
As he sat, he saw a Brazilian fisherman rowing a small boat towards the shore having caught quite few big fish.
The businessman was impressed and asked the fisherman, “How long does it take you to catch so many fish?”
The fisherman replied, “Oh, just a short while.”
“Then why don’t you stay longer at sea and catch even more?” The businessman was astonished.
“This is enough to feed my whole family,” the fisherman said.
The businessman then asked, “So, what do you do for the rest of the day?”
The fisherman replied, “Well, I usually wake up early in the morning, go out to sea and catch a few fish, then go back and play with my kids. In the afternoon, I take a nap with my wife, and evening comes, I join my buddies in the village for a drink — we play guitar, sing and dance throughout the night.”

The businessman offered a suggestion to the fisherman.
“I am a PhD in business management. I could help you to become a more successful person. From now on, you should spend more time at sea and try to catch as many fish as possible. When you have saved enough money, you could buy a bigger boat and catch even more fish. Soon you will be able to afford to buy more boats, set up your own company, your own production plant for canned food and distribution network. By then, you will have moved out of this village and to Sao Paulo, where you can set up HQ to manage your other branches.”

The fisherman continues, “And after that?”
The businessman laughs heartily, “After that, you can live like a king in your own house, and when the time is right, you can go public and float your shares in the Stock Exchange, and you will be rich.”
The fisherman asks, “And after that?”
The businessman says, “After that, you can finally retire, you can move to a house by the fishing village, wake up early in the morning, catch a few fish, then return home to play with kids, have a nice afternoon nap with your wife, and when evening comes, you can join your buddies for a drink, play the guitar, sing and dance throughout the night!”
The fisherman was puzzled, “Isn’t that what I am doing now?”

What brought you joy this week?

This week I am grateful for…

31. A Healthy Baby Nephew

32. A Good Laugh While Valentine’s Day Shopping

33. The Magic After a Snowstorm

34. The Glory of a One-Trip Grocery transport

35. The Wonder of Avocados

#31: A Healthy Baby Nephew

My heart overflows with gratitude as we welcome the newest addition to our ever-growing family. With 10 nephews and nieces now, my heart is fuller than ever. I’m especially grateful for a smooth and healthy delivery. And to top it off, this little guy made his grand entrance on Valentine’s Day—what a perfect day to be born! Welcome to the world, sweet nephew.

#32: A Good Laugh While Valentine’s Day Shopping

This week, I stopped by Trader Joe’s to pick up some groceries—just the usual produce, milk, and whipped cream. I also grabbed some classic Valentine’s Day essentials: flowers, chocolate, and a heartfelt card.

As I checked out, the cashier thoughtfully separated my everyday groceries from my Valentine’s purchases. But when I looked down at my bags, I couldn’t help but burst into laughter. Somehow, the flowers, chocolate, card, and whipped cream ended up together in the “Valentine’s Day” bag. I don’t know what kind of night the cashier thought I had planned, but their unintentional assumption gave me the best laugh of the week!

#33: The Magic After a Snowstorm

There’s something enchanting about the world right after a heavy snowfall. The fresh, untouched snow creates a peaceful silence, as if the world is taking a deep breath. Then, as the day unfolds, people start digging out their cars, and kids rush outside to build snowmen and dive into snowdrifts with pure joy.

This week, after a snowstorm, the sun peeked through just before sunset, casting a golden glow on the pristine white snow. It was breathtaking. Winter may soon start to  wind down, but I’m hoping for a few more of these quiet, beautiful moments before the season ends. And as I write this, it’s snowing again—we’re expecting up to a foot by the time it’s over!

#34: The Glory of a One-Trip Grocery transport

Is there anything more satisfying than bringing in all your groceries in one trip? This week, I had that victorious moment—balancing bags on my arms like a pro, determined to avoid a second trip in the freezing cold. The sheer joy of shutting the door behind me, knowing I wouldn’t have to go back outside, was pure bliss.

#35: The Wonder of Avocados

Can we take a moment to appreciate avocados? These vegetable-looking fruits continue to amaze me with their versatility. Whether I have it mashed into guacamole, layered on sandwiches, molded into traditional Kenyan dishes, or simply spread on toast, avocados never fail to deliver delicious, healthy goodness.

I sometimes miss the variety of avocados I grew up eating, but most of the time, I’m just grateful to have this creamy, nutrient-packed fruit in my life. Long live avocados!

Weekly Spotlight 

This week’s spotlight is a quote from John Lennon.

“When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life.  When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up.  I wrote down ‘happy’.  They told me I didn’t understand the assignment, and I told them they didn’t understand life”  –John Lennon

This week I am grateful for…

26. Adventure with Mr. Cheese

27. Reconnecting with an Old Colleague

28. The Magic of a Snow Day

29. The Joy of a Properly Working Vacuum

30. The Comforting Scent of Loose Leaf Tea

 

#26: Adventure with Mr. Cheese

A few days ago, we spotted a bright yellow cat lingering outside our apartment. It was dark and freezing, and our concern grew as we watched him hover near the entrance, as if hoping to slip inside. My first thought was that he belonged to our next-door neighbor—after all, she has a sign on her door that reads, “Please don’t let the cat outside.”

We tried coaxing him in, but he was skittish, walking away and hiding in the shadows. We tried knocking on our neighbor’s door but there was no response. Unsure of what to do, we consulted google and friends. That’s when my partner’s best friend suggested something brilliant—setting up a makeshift shelter. We placed a bin outside, lined it with warm towels, and hoped he would find refuge there overnight.

The next morning, we saw him again, this time nibbling on something near another neighbor’s door. Moments later, a window opened, and more food dropped onto the ground. Curious, I approached the neighbor to ask if she knew anything about the cat.

That’s when I learned so much.

Turns out, he’s a stray that she—a veterinarian—has been feeding for weeks! She even gave him a name: Mr. Cheese. Her goal is to slowly earn his trust in hopes of eventually adopting him. To our delight, she had even set up a time-lapse video, which captured Mr. Cheese curling up in our box for shelter. Seeing that brought my partner and me so much joy. Here is a blurry picture of him…

Stay tuned—we’re hoping for a happy ending in the adventures of Mr. Cheese!

#27: Reconnecting with an Old Colleague

 

While waiting in line at the grocery store, I noticed someone familiar behind me—an old colleague from seven years ago! We hadn’t seen each other since, and it was such a pleasant surprise to catch up, swapping stories and reminiscing about old times.

At one point, I reminded him about a favor he did for me—he had found an amazing deal on an acoustic guitar and bought it for me at just $90. Laughing, I admitted that despite all these years, I still haven’t learned to play. We both cracked up, promising to stay in touch.

#28: The Magic of a Snow Day

There’s something about the sheer anticipation of a snow day that never gets old. The excitement of checking the forecast, waiting for that official announcement, and then—boom!—an unexpected day off.

I always find myself breaking into a spontaneous happy dance, just like a high school student all over again. Here’s to more snow days this season and embracing the joy they bring!

#29: The Joy of a Properly Working Vacuum

This week, we finally got my hands on a vacuum cleaner that actually works. Our previous vacuum—one of those sleek yet cheap cordless ones from Amazon—was more for show than function. It barely cleaned the carpet, leaving me perpetually disappointed.

Now, with my new vacuum (cord and all), I feel like I’ve unlocked a new level of adulthood. Who knew a properly working vacuum could spark this much joy?

#30: The Comforting Scent of Loose Leaf Tea

Lately, I’ve been savoring Kenyan loose leaf tea that my mother brought me from Kenya a few months ago. Each time I open the container, its rich aroma transports me back home—early mornings with my family, sipping tea and laughing over how “cold” 60-degree weather felt to us.

It’s amazing how certain scents hold memories within them, instantly taking us back to cherished moments.

Weekly Spotlight

This week, we shine a light on an incredible story featured on the podcast My Unsung Hero. In this moving episode, four courageous women stepped up to protect and assist a stranger in need, showcasing the true power of kindness and bravery. Tune in to hear their inspiring journey and the impact of their selfless actions.

Check out the Episode HERE

 

 

This week I am grateful for…

14. Warm clothes Fresh Out of the Dryer

15. The Satisfaction of Deep Cleaning

16. A New Gym and Energizing Workouts

17. The Resilience of Winter Birds

18. An Upcoming Trip 

19. The Joy of Audible

20. Advancements  in Medicine 

#14: Warm Clothes Fresh Out of the Dryer

This week has been bitterly cold, with temperatures in single digits and wind chills making it feel even harsher. Each morning, I’ve faced the daunting task defrosting nearly an inch of ice off my car windshield. Amidst this frozen challenge, one thing felt truly magical: the warmth of clean clothes fresh out of the dryer. Wrapping myself in their heat felt like a comforting hug from a loved one—a gentle reminder that even the coldest winter days are survivable with small, simple joys.

#15: The Satisfaction of Deep Cleaning

Few things feel as rewarding as deep-cleaning a space. This week, I tackled my office area, transforming it into a clean, organized, and inspiring environment. That sense of accomplishment, paired with the fresh start it offers, is deeply satisfying. Now, working in my office feels better than ever.

#16: A New Gym and Energizing Workouts

After weeks of searching for the perfect fit, I finally found a gym that offers the kind of functional workouts I love. While my local YMCA didn’t have the classes I was looking for, this new space has a community vibe and challenges that leave me sweaty, sore, and fulfilled. There’s nothing quite like the rush of endorphins after a tough workout—especially when shared with others who inspire and push you to be your best.

#17: The Resilience of Winter Birds

Have you ever wondered how birds survive the unforgiving cold? This week, I was captivated by the sight of 3 black-capped chickadee pecking through the snow in search of food. Despite the freezing temperatures, these tiny creatures endure, embodying resilience and adaptability. Watching them fills me with awe and reminds me of nature’s wonders.

#18: An Upcoming Trip

You know that childlike excitement that bubbles up when you’re planning a vacation? That’s exactly how I feel right now! This March, during spring break, my girlfriend and I are heading to a warm destination. While the details are still coming together, just dreaming about the sunshine and adventure lifts my spirits. Stay tuned for more updates!

#19: The Joy of Audible

While I’ve always loved getting lost in a good book, finding time to sit down and read can feel impossible with a packed schedule. Enter Audible, my trusty companion for errands and commutes. Listening to audiobooks turns mundane tasks into enjoyable escapes. This week, I’ve even looked forward to running errands, knowing I’d get to dive back into my latest listen. It’s a game-changer for making the most of busy days.

#20: Advancements in Medicine

This week, I’ve been reading Nexus by Yuval Noah Harari. Side. note Sapiens, his first book profoundly shaped my perspective on humanity and the stories we hold dear, like nations, religions, and even money. In Nexus, Harari reflects on the staggering advances in medicine, comparing today’s world to a time when nearly half of all children didn’t survive past age ten. While heartbreaking to read about, it’s also a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come. I’m deeply grateful for the progress that’s made such a difference in countless lives.

Weekly Spotlight

This week’s spotlight is NPR’s Hidden Brain podcast titled “Being Kind to Yourself.” It offers a powerful reminder to practice self-compassion and treat ourselves with the same kindness we extend to others. Truly a thought-provoking listen!

Being Kind to Yourself

 

 

Last week, I was traveling and ended up getting sick, so I missed my usual weekly post. To make up for it, this week I’ll share eight gratitude moments, and next week I’ll post seven, averaging five extra reasons to be grateful. Here are this week’s moments of gratitude:

6. Health

7. Time with Family 

8. Severance 

9. Gift of a Home-Cooked Meal

10. Long Weekend 

11. Key Finder 

12. Health at MBSR

13. Sleepcasts 

#6: Health

Last weekend, my girlfriend and I traveled to Des Moines, Iowa, to visit family. Unfortunately, I got sick on the way back. Thankfully, I’m starting to feel better, which has made me deeply grateful for my health. There’s a saying I love: “When you are healthy, you have a thousand problems, but when you are unhealthy, you really have just one problem.” It’s a powerful reminder of how vital health is to everything else in life.

#7: Time with Family

Our trip to Iowa gave me the chance to spend quality time with family. With everyone living so far apart, I’ve learned to treasure these moments more than ever. I feel so fortunate to have such a loving, kind, and supportive family. They’re truly a blessing in my life.

#8: Severance 

If you’re into sci-fi and psychological thrillers, you must check out Severance on Apple TV. (Pro tip: If you’re a student or have T-Mobile, you might qualify for free Apple TV!) This show is phenomenal. While it starts a bit slow and confusing, it quickly picks up and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I’m beyond excited for Season 2, which is currently airing.

#9: Gift of a Home-Cooked Meal

Returning to Massachusetts late Sunday night after our trip, we realized we didn’t have any meals prepared for dinner or the workweek.My partner’s parent came to the rescue, meeting us along the way with a delicious homemade pasta and meatball dinner. Her kindness and generosity mean the world to me.

#10: Long Weekend

There’s nothing like a long weekend to recharge, especially when you need it most. Thanks to MLK Day tomorrow, I’ll enjoy a day off and a shorter work week. This extra rest couldn’t have come at a better time as I continue to recover from being under the weather.

#11: Key Finder

My partner recently bought a set of key-finder GPS tiles and offered me one. At first, I thought it was unnecessary since I rarely lose my keys. But last week, I couldn’t find them anywhere, and I was running late. I had completely forgotten about the tile until my partner reminded me. Using the app, I quickly located my keys and even made the tile ring to pinpoint them. Thanks to this handy gadget, I made it out the door on time. Lesson learned: Never underestimate the power of tiny tech.

#12: Health at MBSR 

During my weekly Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) session, the topic of pain came up. It was disheartening to hear how many people in the group resonated with this topic and had the courage to share their histories with chronic pain. I’m grateful for the sense of community and support in these sessions and well as my own health.

#13: Sleepcasts

I subscribe to Headspace, a meditation app, and one of my favorite features is their sleepcasts. These soothing bedtime stories describe relaxing settings like a cozy bed-and-breakfast or a serene park. Listening to them helps me unwind and sets the stage for restful sleep. This week, I’ve been especially grateful for this calming nightly ritual.

Weekly Spotlight 

This week’s spotlight is the poem “Always We Hope” By Lao Tzu

Always we hope
someone else has the answer,
some other place will be better,
some other time,
it will turn out.

This is it.

No one else has the answer,
no other place will be better,
and it has already turned out.

At the centre of your being,
you have the answer:
you know who you are and
you know what you want.

There is no need to run outside
for better seeing,
nor to peer from a window.
Rather abide at the centre of your being:
for the more you leave it,
the less you learn.

Search your heart and see
the way to do is to be.

Abide at the centre of your being.

What brought you joy this week?

This Week, I Am Grateful For…

1. New Year 
2. Kind Stranger at Dunkin’s
3. Fresh Haircut 
4. Funny Moments 
5. Dessert 

#1: New Year

  I love New Year’s! It’s a time for fresh beginnings and endless possibilities. As 2025 begins, I’m excited to embrace more adventure and step outside my comfort zone. I want it to be a year full of courage and bravery. More on this late! This year, I plan to prioritize my mental and physical health, cherish quality moments with family and friends, and let go of unnecessary stress over small things. Here’s to a year of growth and joy!

#2: Kind Stranger at Dunkin’s

A couple of weeks ago, I was picking up a large order of coffee and donuts for a work event. The order was too much for me to carry in one trip, so I was figuring out what to leave behind. A kind woman saw my predicament and offered to help carry the rest of my order to my car. Thank you so much, kind stranger.

#3: Fresh Haircut

There’s nothing quite like a fresh haircut. This week, my barber gave me an incredible fade—truly a work of art. I don’t say it enough, but thank you for your unmatched skills. You manage to boost my confidence by at least 30-45% every month. You’re the real MVP!

#4: Funny Moments

  Gyms are full with energy these days, thanks to New Year’s resolutions and a renewed sense of purpose. This week at the Y, we ended a workout with a cooldown that involved balancing on a bouncy ball while mimicking a paddling motion with our feet. Let’s just say it wasn’t my finest moment—I was wobbling and flailing like a beginner tightrope walker. But when I glanced over at my partner, she was effortlessly paddling like a pro. I was like “Look at her go! She is adorable!” I couldn’t stop laughing; it was the perfect reminder not to take myself too seriously. Who knows, we might have discovered her hidden talent for bouncy ball paddling!

#5: Dessert

Dessert wasn’t a common feature in my childhood. I vividly remember my first taste of cake in 7th or 8th grade at boarding school in Kenya. A friend had brought back a piece of Black Forest cake from a fancy restaurant, and kindly let me try it. The experience was nothing short of euphoric—an intense dopamine rush that made me feel alive and alert. Though I don’t have much love cake now, I’m grateful for the wide variety of desserts available to me.  

 Weekly Spotlight 

This week’s spotlight is an inspiring Poem by Danusha Lameris

I’ve been thinking about the way, when you walk
down a crowded aisle, people pull in their legs
to let you by. Or how strangers still say “bless you”
when someone sneezes, a leftover
from the Bubonic plague. “Don’t die,” we are saying.

And sometimes, when you spill lemons
from your grocery bag, someone else will help you
pick them up. Mostly, we don’t want to harm each other.

We want to be handed our cup of coffee hot,
and to say thank you to the person handing it. To smile
at them and for them to smile back. For the waitress
to call us honey when she sets down the bowl of clam chowder,
and for the driver in the red pick-up truck to let us pass.

We have so little of each other, now. So far
from tribe and fire. Only these brief moments of exchange.
What if they are the true dwelling of the holy, these
fleeting temples we make together when we say, “Here,
have my seat,” “Go ahead — you first,” “I like your hat.”

–Danusha Lameris

 

What are you looking forward to this year?