Sehra Aggarwal, Grade 12
UWCEA Arusha Campus
Some days may seem great, while others may leave you feeling demotivated. However, regardless of how your day might be going, it is important to turn your focus to gratitude, because although one day might not go as planned, I believe there is always something to be grateful for. Below is a list of the things that I am most grateful for in my day-to-day life.
- Regular access to the internet
The internet enables me to perform a myriad of tasks within a touch of a button be it for school or in my free time. Not only can I contact my friends from over 8000 kilometres away but I can access the vastest data network that our world has to offer us in a matter of seconds. Although it may seem that the internet is something that everyone can access whenever they please, around 27% of the global population does not have regular access to it, making it more of a luxury than a common good. Thus, I am grateful for the fact that whenever I want to browse Jstor for a new academic journal or scour the depths of StockX for the latest pair of jordans, I can do so. - My free time
The ability to enjoy the sunset, to hear the leaves rustle in the autumn breeze, to feel the sun’s warmth on my skin after days of gloomy weather. These are small actions that we often take for granted. To appreciate the world around us without having to sacrifice something is indeed a treat more than it is a necessity. The fact that I can enjoy all of the aforementioned things without having to worry about other pressing matters is something I am extremely thankful for. - My education and the opportunities I have been given
Within my community in Tanzania, I am one of few individuals who can speak, read, and write in more than one language and perform mathematical equations past primary school level. My education has enabled me to achieve all of this, therefore, I am highly appreciative of it. I am also part of the 10% of Tanzanian citizens who plan on pursuing further education after primary school, and I make sure to acknowledge this privilege every day. - A loving and supportive family
Although it is very mediocre, having a loving and supportive family is something that has proved integral to my day-to-day life. The fact that I can sit down and have a conversation with my family about virtually anything is something that I have eternal value for. - Loyal friends
Similarly, my friends act as a vital support system for me, regardless of the time they always pick up my phone calls and offer me the best advice they possibly can. I can count on them for anything and I know that they will take care of me in the most adverse circumstances. Apart from this, they serve as free stand-up comedians, making me laugh until my ribs hurt while reminding me that there is more to life than material. - Safe and clean drinking water
Water is life. Having lived in a country in which millions of people are harmed by excess fluoride in the water, I am extremely grateful for the fact that I have access to clean and safe drinking water at all times. I am lucky enough to get a glass of water whenever I want and not have to worry about boiling it for hours or walking over 10km a day for a few litres of it. I certainly do take it for granted sometimes, however, actively reflecting on my life is one of the things that keeps me grounded and reminds me of my privilege. - Access to food and the ability to choose what I want to eat
The age-old question in most households is “what would you like for dinner” which is usually followed by an eye roll and “I don’t know, maybe rice?” The former question in itself is something I generally pay little attention to but as I have become more aware of some of the circumstances that many people around the globe are in, I have become much more grateful for situations like these. Not only do I have the opportunity to eat three satiating meals a day but I also have the choice to eat what I like.
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