Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about family and gratitude. A close friend’s dad recently passed away, and it’s really hit home for me. It’s moments like these that make you stop and reflect on what you have, and I realize just how lucky I am. I still have my family, and we’re all in good health. That’s something I never want to take for granted.
That said, I’ve always found it difficult to spend a lot of time with family. I’m not really a people person, to be honest. I enjoy my own space, my routines, and I get energy from being on my own. Plus, living far away from them doesn’t make it any easier. Sometimes it feels like there’s a natural distance between us, and that makes it harder to maintain the kind of close relationship I think we’d all like to have.
Still, that doesn’t mean I don’t care. In fact, I think it’s because of that distance—both physical and emotional—that I yearn for a closer relationship with them. I just find it hard to balance that desire with my need for personal space. Luckily, technology makes it easier to stay connected. A quick message or video call can go a long way, even if we’re not physically together. It might not replace in-person time, but it keeps us close in a way that matters.
And even though my family can irritate me at times (whose doesn’t?), I’m grateful for them. They’ve always been there for me, and my life feels more complete with them in it. Having them around, even at a distance, is something I appreciate more as time goes on.
Then, of course, there are my dogs, Albus and Aslan, who are like family too. They offer a different kind of companionship, one that’s filled with unconditional love and comfort. They remind me daily of how full my life is with those I care about—both people and pets alike. For all of this, I’m grateful.
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