As I opened my eyes from the blissful rest of the night, a surge of gratitude enveloped me, prompting reflections on the subtle yet profound aspects of life. It's almost as if a robotic part of me started replaying memories, especially now that age has deepened my understanding of actions, the significance of small gestures, and the unspoken sacrifices people make, particularly for others. This realization overwhelmed me, but the prevailing emotion is one of profound gratitude.

I owe a debt of gratitude to every individual who has played a role in my journey. This introspection led me back to a lesson from my teenage years, a simple yet impactful exercise I learned from a speaker at my secondary school. In a time before social media dominated our interactions, he encouraged us to write notes expressing appreciation—simple affirmations like "You are beautiful" or "You look handsome today." Initially seen as a tool for wooing the opposite sex🤭, these notes held a deeper power.

Reflecting on moments of genuine confidence and happiness, I discovered that sincere compliments from those around me contributed significantly. It wasn't flattery; it was a genuine acknowledgment of positive actions. This practice, seemingly small, instilled confidence and a sense of doing something right. I yearn for a return to a time where such acts of care were prevalent.

In our immediate social circles, beyond familial ties, I propose a simple act of kindness—taking a moment once a month or every two months to acknowledge the positive aspects of those around us. Imagine expressing gratitude for someone's consistency or encouraging them to keep up the good work. This, I believe, holds immense healing power. It's not about preaching or showcasing these moments to the world; the true beauty lies in the quiet practicality of caring for one another.

Sadly, our world has become so consumed by challenges that genuine care for others often takes a back seat. I challenge us to break free from this immersion in our struggles. Let's step back, acknowledge each other's strengths, and foster an environment where healing can occur organically. It may not make headlines, but the impact will ripple across the world. Let's revive the art of genuine appreciation within our immediate circles—one heartfelt note at a time.

Oluwatobiloba Gideon OLUDAYOMI