Feeling Loved & Lucky: Finding Gratitude in Every Season

February is often a month filled with love. Valentine’s Day, cozy moments with people who care about us, and little reminders that kindness and warmth go a long way. But for those of us navigating chronic illness or just facing life’s everyday challenges, this time of year can also bring feelings of exhaustion, loneliness, or the weight of all we’re carrying.

Lately, life has been nonstop for me. Student teaching in a third-grade classroom every day from 7:30 to 3:30 is rewarding, but it takes every ounce of energy I have. Add in flu season, and my body has felt like it’s constantly fighting off cold symptoms. Some days, it’s frustrating. Some days, it’s completely overwhelming. But in those moments, I try to find the things that remind me that, even in the hardest times, there is still good, there is still love, and there is still so much to be grateful for.

Finding Your “Lucky” Moments
Feeling lucky isn’t about having a perfect life. It’s about seeing the good that exists right now. When I look for these little moments, they add up.

• The way my students make me laugh, even on the most exhausting days.
• The relief of my IVIG finally arriving with all the correct lines and needles.
• Knowing that my IVIG is giving my immune system a boost right when I need it most.
• A text from a friend reminding me I’m not in this alone.
• These are all signs that even when life is hard, there are still things to celebrate.

Your Strength is Something to Be Grateful For
Some days, it’s easy to feel like we’re not doing enough. But if we take a step back, we realize how far we’ve come. Whether you’re managing an illness, navigating school or work, or simply showing up for yourself, that is huge.

For me, IVIG nights used to feel so isolating. The soreness, the swelling, the fatigue, it’s hard. But I’ve learned that even in these tough moments, I can create little routines to make them feel just a little bit better. One small thing I do? I wash my bed sheets and blankets before my infusion. Knowing that after a long night, I get to cuddle up in a cozy, fresh bed makes the whole experience a little easier. It’s a small act of comfort, but it makes a difference.

Bringing Good Energy Into the World
When we feel grateful, we naturally start to give more to the world around us. And the best part? It doesn’t take grand gestures to spread love and good energy.

• A kind word to a stranger or friend.
• A deep breath before reacting with frustration.
• A small act of self-care, as silly as it sounds but remaking and cleaning my bed-because taking care of yourself allows you to pour into others.
• February is a reminder that love exists in so many forms. It’s in our friendships, our accomplishments, the little joys we collect along the way. And no matter where you are in your journey, you are worthy of love, joy, and all the goodness life has to offer.

So today, take a moment to feel lucky, not because life is perfect, but because even in the hardest seasons, there is still so much to be grateful for. 💛🧡❤️🩷