Reflections and gratitude!

Reflections tend to show the hidden gems that we overlook at times. Reflecting on the year gone by was intriguing. There were times when the clock seemed to be still. Other times, it ticked fast. I could hardly remember the mundane tasks and had to refer to my phone to recall what I spent my time and energy on. I realized half of the year went staring at mobiles/ screens. Half of the world's population went in for voting, and more than half of the world media reported on elections, war, natural calamities, and price rises, things common post-COVID. All this and many more kept many of us busy with mobiles and leaving our brains rotting. The Oxford Dictionary's the year was 'Brain rot'. I realized it after the year ended. No doubt, the brain's memory and processing capacity are sliding down.

Personally, the year had its fair share of blissful and blurry moments, regardless of shortfalls. I remember sailing in Norway's stunning fjords that felt like time had stopped. The time spent with friends & family with laughter and delicious food felt brief. At times, I was remorseful of all good things coming to an end.

I recalled reading a large board at the Flam, Norway station that left me pondering. I realized it is a reminder of times that could also be distressing. Like waiting at airports and train stations or worse. And how important it is to live in the present with all our senses.

I felt blessed to have had opportunities of travel, abundance, laughter, hard work, sunshine (if you travelled), and lessons. Lessons on how little I know, on how to cherish people and moments more than material things. Lessons on how time waits for no one, even if you have a nice watch. Lessons on why I should be humble, as there is always someone around who is better. Lessons on how life is short, enjoy it while you can. The reflections also revealed how much more I need to learn and understand. How I should appreciate those around me and be grateful for each moment.

Traveling, visiting places, and learning new things made me happy. But I was touched by how writing about my journeys, thoughts, and experiences made you, my dear reader, happy. I feel grateful for your time and attention to my blogs. Your continued support and motivation helped me to live these wonderful moments twice, first in reality and then in my writing. The cherished feedback and appreciation I received were humbling. You have my deepest gratitude. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your time and kind wishes. I will endeavor to bring you more good thoughts and experiences in the coming year. I wish you a very happy and healthy New Year!