Gratitude Practice [Week 3]

This past week, it’s been all about Black Lives Matter, and Singapore’s safe-reopening: “Phase 1”.

The news has been sharing countless stories on the protests, the violence and looting. Everyone on social media has had something to say about the movement, the “right hashtag”, and racism within their own community (race, country, etc.). 

In Singapore, there’s been a lot of talk about racism towards migrant workers (don’t build the dorms “in my backyard”!), towards minority ethnic groups, and the “majority” race is getting woke on Chinese privilege. 

Not to forget - we’ve still got the Covid-19 crisis going on. More unemployment, more businesses closing, more F&B outlets shutting down. Social gatherings and travel are still not allowed. On top of all of that, there’s the dengue situation to worry about!

It’s been a lot to take in. I’m overwhelmed. 

Alyssa very timely posted a wonderful quote on Calm Collective’s Instagram page, which I am very grateful for:

This is your reminder to take a break from scrolling.

While scrolling through IG/FB the past week+ has been exhausting, I’m grateful for the good parts of social media: Reminders for self-care, personal stories and quotes shared that resonate and inspire, cute animals, and the occasional funny meme.

I’m grateful for my health - both physically and mentally. Being physically healthy, I can take long walks and practice yoga. Mental health allows me to be present in connecting with the people I care about, and undertake intellectual tasks with clarity.

I’m grateful to have all 5 senses to engage with the world around me. With touch, I can enjoy a comforting cuddle at the end of a long day. With sight, I can enjoy watching the clouds and observing nature. With hearing, I can listen the calming waves of the sea. With smell, I can breathe in the refreshing smell of rain (it’s called petrichor), and inhale all the flavours of my favourite food and imagine its taste. With taste, I can appreciate the essence of every race and culture of the world.

Bringing it back to basics this week. Life could be worse :)