Galimgim

/4/ Gratitude

I've learned that it's better to find the good in every circumstance. But does "good" and "bad" really exist? Or is it simply how we choose to see things?

I believe that no person or creature is born purely evil---or maybe I'm just an optimist. After all, isn't that how it is?

Sometimes, one mistake from someone we trust is enough to erase all the good they've ever done. We notice the flaw, no matter how small, and forget the kindness, no matter how great. It's human nature. But I've decided---I don't want to be led by that part of my nature. I choose to be grateful instead.

I've also realized that forgiving isn't about doing someone else a favor---it's about being kind to yourself. If I hold on to bitterness, I'm only hurting myself, shaping a version of me I wouldn't be proud of. So, I've started forgiving---not just others, but myself. I forgive myself for my past mistakes. I'm done carrying that weight. I love myself too much to keep suffering over something that's already behind me.

These days, I try to do everything with compassion. That night, as I walked toward the dinner table,  a fierce and unshakable desire burned within me.

"Mom, I know what I want now."

Everyone turned to me, waiting for me to go on. "I want to be become an engineer."

Silence. For a moment, I thought they were about to scold me. Then, my mom finally spoke. "If you want to become an engineer, you should start doing it now."

Her words echoed in my mind. Start doing it now. I realized she wasn't just talking about studying or practicing. She meant erasing the "other person" from the equation---not necessarily a literal person, but the parts of myself that hold me back. My old habits. My hesitation. My lack of commitment.

To start doing it now means staying true to my words, no matter the circumstances. It means being committed to my dream even if life throws challenges my way, even if my mental struggles try to stop me, even if luck isn't on my side.

Because I'm not just waiting for luck to work---I'm playing along with it.