In appreciation of ‘more’

I already knew I had a problem on my hands when I got this prompt. It’s a good problem though because I can’t imagine how having too much to be thankful for can ever be a bad thing. 

I’m more in favour of a listicle this time around, just so I can stick to five things I’m thankful that I got more of this year.

Food

Ah, as much as I’m one of those people who’d rather automate food and just get that part of my life over with, there are special mentions when it comes to this palate affair. Where would I be without amala, the GOAT of swallow? Or Ewa Agoyin? Or Plantain? Or ice cream? Or cake?

And uhm… alcohol?

Work

LOL! Hear me out, please. I don’t know if it’s because I genuinely love what I do or because most of my growth as a person happens where I work; it’s just what it is. This year has been quite challenging as far as work is concerned but amid it all, I got a rare chance to embrace new responsibilities and stretch myself even further. I even got to work with a new team outside Avon. Is it uncomfortable sometimes? Hell yes. Scary? That too! However, I realise that it’s a blessing and I never begrudge those.

Humour

See ehn, if I said everything is peachy, I’d be lying. There’s so much happening with the capacity to leave one with a frown often. But when there’s life, there are memes. And memes do make me laugh so, I’m thankful.

Restarts

One thing I realised this year is how much more difficult life would be if there were no opportunities to retrace one’s steps, course-correct or learn from one’s mistakes. Sure, not everyone gets a second chance. Even I don’t, sometimes. However, I’m quick to recognise when a hand of grace – human or divine – has been extended to me in whatever area of life. It’s one thing I’m incredibly thankful for.

Love

From family, colleagues, friends, neighbours. Being looked out for and cared for is a blessing. In addition to all these, I got to start a new journey by getting married to an amazing woman I only saw as a colleague eight years ago. It’s a crazy story I might get to share some other day. Let’s just say that life can take pretty interesting turns and for me, I’m thankful for where it leads.