Reflections of Gratitude: People Who Have Shaped My Journey in 2022

2022 was a year of profound lessons and profound feelings, especially when it came to reflecting on the people who have shaped my journey. It's not just a cursory glance at the milestones and achievements but a deeper dive into the people who have been there through the highs and lows. This article is my heartfelt thank you note to those who made a difference in my life.

Gratitude and the Unsung Heroes

Gratitude is more than just saying thank you; it's about recognizing the value and impact others have on our lives. In 2022, I came across so many individuals who taught me valuable lessons and showed me kindness in the most unexpected ways.

Uber Drivers, Passersby, and Companions

During the nights when I needed a ride the most, my Uber drivers turned up, confirming their reliability and care. When I facedeve teasing, passersby rushed to help, showing their courage and compassion. And when I was dealing with the worst of my depression, my room was mopped, my clothes folded, and my belongings arranged by cleaners who silently provided support.

Zomato Boys and Colleagues

The 'Zomato boys' ensured that food was brought in during the harshest weather conditions, a gesture that we often take for granted. My colleagues expressed concern when I looked sick, and when I was in an alien city with no one to turn to, my mentor and guide arrived at the hospital at 1 AM to provide a lifeline.

Believers and Empathizers

There were people who truly believed in my stories and validated my feelings. They didn't say 'not all men' when I sought to explain experiences as a woman. The individuals who let me define my identity, rather than imposing their expectations, played a crucial role in my personal growth.

Support from the LGBTQ Community

Friends from the queer community went out of their way to comfort me during tough times, staying on video calls when I couldn't sleep, and providing a safe space to express myself. These friends also had incredible communication skills, setting boundaries and having difficult conversations with respect. They left relationships because it was hard but did so with dignity, giving me a closure I deserved.

These friends and community members shared a common value of equality and dignity for all, enlightened by the violation of rights. They were as enraged as me and understood the deep pain caused by discrimination.

Personal Growth and Reflection

Several events and people also left a lasting impact on me. Tennis coaches who spent extra time on my serves, vending machines that provided essential materials like sanitary pads and food in inconvenient circumstances, and fathers and mothers who supported me even in the darkest moments of my life, own their roles in my growth.

Missteps and Lessons Learned

In contrast, relationships that didn't work out were also valuable experiences. People who didn't treat me right, who ended things abruptly, and those who did not fit my 'likeable' categories taught me essential lessons. They highlighted my need to set boundaries and learn to say 'no'. They showed me the importance of self-care, resilience, and self-acceptance.

I am eternally grateful for these individuals who made me a survivor. Through their actions and reactions, I was forced to take care of myself, to confront my emotional burdens, and to become a stronger, more self-reliant individual. My journey of self-discovery will continue, but I am better equipped to navigate the challenges ahead because of the lessons and the people I met along the way.

So, here's my heartfelt 'Thank You' to everyone who has shaped my journey in 2022. You might not always be there, but you will forever hold a special place in my heart.