Hey angelsss,

Normally, I’d be in school right now. But the reason I’m not is because I’m sick. I don’t feel too well, so I’m staying home. Next week I’ll be on a class trip to Berlin (so excited!!) and I don’t want to risk not being able to go.

Every time I get sick, I realize how much I take being healthy for granted. When you’re lying in bed with a headache or a sore throat, you suddenly remember how good it feels, to feel well. Being able to go outside, laugh with friends, or eat your favorite food without it tasting weird. Those things start to feel like luxuries once they’re gone.

And that brings me to the point of this post:

You only truly value things when you don’t have them anymore

Humans have the habit of always wanting more, always chasing the next big thing, and never being satisfied with what they already have. And that’s kinda weird to think about. We get annoyed by the smallest things. Homework, chores, or having to eat vegetables because your mom says they’re good for your health (I should have been eating more veggies 🥀🥀). But imagine if you could never go to school, or if you didn’t have anything to eat at all.

I think we all need reminders from time to time. Being sick shows me that health is not something we can just assume. Friends aren’t a given. A family isn’t either. Even small things, like waking up and choosing what to wear, or having a warm meal waiting for you, are worth being thankful for.

While you complain about having to go to school, some kids in other countries would do anything to just go there once. You’re mad because your phone died, while someone else wishes they even had one. You might feel embarrassed because you didn’t get the sneakers everyone has, while someone else would be happy just to own a single pair of comfortable shoes.

But gratitude doesn’t mean you’re not allowed to feel sad, tired, or frustrated. Of course you are. Life gets heavy sometimes, and it’s okay to complain once in a while. But at the end of the day, try to look around and notice things you do have. Maybe it’s your best friend, maybe it’s your pet, maybe it’s just your favourite song.

That’s what I want to remind myself today: to stop waiting until something is gone before I finally appreciate it. To notice the little things while they’re still here.

So, if you’re reading this right now, maybe think of three things you’re grateful for today. Writing them down can be a great exercise.

And if you’re feeling sick like me, remember to rest and hydrate. Health will come back soon, your body is fighting for you.

XOXO,
Leona💋