During the holidays, we’re supposed to find and have gratitude for any and everything in our lives, what we went through in the past year, etc. But sometimes, mental health battles, stress, reminders of loss, financials struggles prevent us from taking the time to be grateful. So with this quick entry, I’d like to list down what I’m grateful for.

I am grateful for my parents. They have been so supportive, especially this year. When I graduated, lost everything, I asked if I can live with them, they happily accepted. When I was living with them, they encouraged me with the job search and finding a job while living with them for a few months. And when it’s time to move back to the Portland area, they were ecstatic and helped me out. Even now they support me, especially when things get tough financially, they insisted on supporting me when I didn’t want them to pitch in and not dry themselves out.

I am grateful of my beloved partner, Brennan. Even in times that are hard, he never gave up on me. He pushed me to be the very best while loving me with everything he has. He supports me in every way as well as encouraging me to take the steps needed for me a better me. In fact, I praise him for pushing me to go back and finish college when I really didn’t want to do it. No matter how great and how much of a mess I am, he still loves me, all of me. And I couldn’t have asked for a better partner by my side.

I am grateful that I choose happiness this year. Earlier this year, I chased what was right all because of an insecurity I developed. Brennan and I split, I quit my job, left the area I called home to an area that was once home but now a town I’m just familiar with, nothing else. All it took was a weekend to celebrate my commencement to realize I’m happier here and I got everything here.

Other things I’m grateful for are of my church family, helping me out in every aspect of life outside of church; my cat June for giving me unconditional and forgiving love no matter what; and God for also never giving up on me when my insecurity in my faith wavers.