NAIROBI, Kenya Gratitude on most days sounds like something reserved for grandiose achievements.A new job or job promotion, increased salaries,a new car,a new house,a newborn baby,a parcel of land,a scholarship and the type.
When you are not winning big, social media can make you feel as though you don’t have a nyota, thankfulness seemingly left for big monetary purchases. Achievements that don’t have cash receipts to back them up feel irrelevant and minute to be considered good. Basking in not-so-big achievements feels like less of a feeling.
Looking back at this year, however, there’s a lot to be thankful for. No,there were no big cash purchases or such, and yes, I’d very much like to make those, too, but I’m still overly grateful.
When we were making joyful noises to usher in the new year, we pretty much looked forward to another New Year deafening scream with the same faces. Somewhere along the months, however, people have passed on, and while for most, it was acts of God, some gave in to the pressure that is life and ended it. I’m grateful that I’m still here to write another story.
Within the months too, despair and heartaches have caused most to give up and just exist. Depression and substance addiction rages on most souls, and still, millions can’t afford the necessary care. I’m thankful that I do have joys to dwell in.
During the Maandamano period in Kenya, tens of lives were lost. Those lives could be anyone’s at any place. The related kidnappings too and other inhumane acts could target anybody. I’m thankful that the shocking events spared me. It’s sad to wake up to the news of murders most foul every now and then that seem very premeditated. It’s scary and annoying that no precautions are good enough for anyone.
I’m grateful to Kenyans for not letting this government dim their spirits, for fighting for what they believe in, for speaking their minds, for not giving up and keeping on against all odds, for taking initiatives to empower fellow countrymen with information and receipts to back it up, and for standing up for this country.
I’m grateful that I have the patience to handle really petty and annoying humans. The kind that work overtime to try and strip you of any joys in your life.The kind that are rude and condescending for no apparent reason.The kind that rains on your shine on a sunny, beautiful day.Humans who feel they’re the most important beings.
I’m grateful for friendships. Old and new ones.Non-existent friendships for paving ways for new ones.New friends for holding great spaces for the time being.Timeless friends for evolving through the seasons.
Although it’s easy to forget about everyday blessings, I’m grateful for every new day under the sun.
