María Vacca Crisostomo, Grade 12
UWC-USA

Gratefulness. What does it really mean? We often misinterpret it to be the same as thankfulness. But it’s so much more - it is the act of not only recognizing the good that someone does for us, but also the channel that allows us to value them with the appreciation they deserve. 
Here is my list of top 5 things I am grateful for. 

  1. Family: I think this one goes without saying. Family is that group of people who I enjoy my best moments with, who I can openly talk to, who I enjoy my most memorable memories with, who are there to celebrate my victories and support and guide me just as much during my failures. It's where I learn my core values, understand my culture, form my notion of what is right and wrong and build the essence of what defines me. The support from family drives me to be a better person as I look up to my parents and younger brother as a source of inspiration, and guidance. It's the greatest gift that we receive as soon as we step into this world. 

  1. Education: This is another very important one. From preschool all the way up to higher education, this is what defines us, enlightens us, allows us to discover greater into our passions and is a door to some endless possibilities. Whatever the subject may be, I truly see knowledge as not just a brain builder but also a personality builder. I think everything we learn, the experiences that we gain while learning and discovering, all add to our personality, our understanding of the world, our perspective of seeing things, and most importantly- it has the power to shape an individual. 

  1. Health: Living in a world where healthcare systems are advanced and easy to access, it is something easy to overlook how grateful we should actually be for our health. For having the ability to do the things we can, for being able to take proper care of ourselves, to be able to seek help when in need- they are all things that not everyone is fortunate enough to have. According to studies, if we have access to ‘essential health services’, we are among the top 6% of the world population!

  1. Home, food and water: Yes, the most basic of necessities and that's all the more reason to be grateful for them. We are fortunate that we have food to eat, water to quench our thirst and a roof over our heads. I am grateful for the comfort of home, the refreshing coolness of water and plate full food that I am able to enjoy. We get so caught up with focusing on our problems that we can hardly take time out to focus on the good around us. I think it's worth taking a minute every morning to thank God for everything we have- this not only helps us consciously be grateful, but also allows us to be happier and more satisfied in life. 

Sleep: We all LOVE our sleep, but this is something I hadn't start to recognize and appreciate until a few years ago. When I realised that sleep deprivation can lead to a whole plethora of health problems, I understood how very important a good night's sleep is. To be able to lie in bed, and fall asleep within minutes is something that we all should be grateful for - it's not only where we see our wildest dreams but also where we re energise and recharge ourselves for another exciting day!