What are you grateful for in 2023?

There is a power in being able to transform a mindset of lack to one of abundance.

Think of it as kindle to our flame of happiness, a fire that needs to be stoked and fed, nurtured until its warmth and light are all-encompassing. If instant gratification is like small twigs that burn bright but quickly turn to ash, gratitude is like those large logs that sustainably fuel the hearth.

As the year comes to a close, it’s fitting to celebrate the season with a gratitude practice.

Personally, I am grateful to have found myself and my voice again. It was a long journey of inner work that has allowed me to really reacquaint with my most authentic self and release the fears and traumas that had once caused me to hide. I am eternally grateful for the incredible support system I have; from family and friends, mentors and colleagues, to spontaneous connections and understanding strangers, the list is long and that, itself, is beautiful. My heart is also full when I think of how my two boys are flourishing. They have both really come out of their shells and are growing to become the shiny, wonderful souls that they are. Compassionate and soulful, they make me so proud. Lastly, I’m grateful for the kindness around me. The world isn’t an easy place, full of challenges, and life is an eternal rollercoaster, but the universe constantly surrounds me with kindness and love.

Here are some heartfelt sentiments from some wonderful people.

Tootsy Angara

Grateful for sweet reunions! Our two older kids have been away at university, and I’ve been counting the days till they come home. There is nothing like a warm embrace after their absence. I love, love, love the Christmas chaos! The noise, laughter, little squabbles are music to my ears — these family gatherings strengthen the connections made long ago, because family is when life begins and love never ends! Family is LOVE and family is FOREVER!

Mariana Zobel

I am grateful for the luxury of rock-solid teams, who make me look better than I should. I am also thankful for the luxury of family; for siblings, and cousins who act like siblings.

Migz Zubiri

There have been so many blessings to be thankful for this year. But as a legislator, perhaps I am most grateful to have had the opportunity to pass impactful legislation for our people, such as the Agrarian Emancipation Act, which frees many of our farmers from the burden of loans; the Trabaho Para sa Bayan Act, which will give our people decent jobs suited to their skills; and our long-promised Regional Specialty Centers Act, which will deliver accessible and affordable specialized medical care to all Filipinos across the country. We deeply value the trust that the people have given us, and it is gratifying to be able to repay that trust with laws that serve our people’s needs.

Of course, I am also extremely grateful to God for keeping me and my family in good health this year. And I pray that in the coming year, God continues to bless us all with an abundance of love and protection, as we all work to create a better year for our families, our communities, and the country.

Small Laude

I am grateful for too many things. Big and small, every good thing overwhelms me into the realization that I am truly blessed. My vlog reach, my endorsements, my travels, making people laugh hard and all the unwavering support from my followers. Most of all, for my family who tirelessly rally behind me and give me the go signal to complete my purpose.

Ernest Cu

As the year comes to a close, I am filled with deep gratitude and boundless joy as I reflect on the countless blessings that have enriched my life. From the precious gift of good health to the cherished expansion of our family, this year has reaffirmed the profound significance of well-being, love and resilience.

Our family eagerly anticipates the arrival of two more grandchildren, a blessing that will infuse our lives with immeasurable happiness and love. 

And in the face of a challenging economic landscape, I am immensely thankful for another year of sound business results for the Globe Group. The unwavering resilience and determination of our team have yielded significant dividends as we continuously expand our businesses beyond the telecommunications industry. This success further strengthens our belief in the indomitable spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship, serving as a testament to our commitment to growth and progress.

Dolly de Leon

I’m a staunch believer that meaningful relationships are an integral part of being human. 

So I’m grateful for all the people who have been a constant presence in my life who have given me nothing but love and support during my ups and most especially my downs.

Kai Lim

I am grateful for my family’s good health. That is really all that matters.

Steven Tan

This year I am grateful for second chances and new opportunities. Traveling to new places and making new friends and reconnections. We often take this for granted but it’s only when it is nearly taken away that one develops a deep sense of gratitude for a return to form. Also very happy the retail industry is back in a big way. All good things as we push forward!

Senator Mark Villar

This year has been a good one. I am grateful for the blessing of good health for me and my family. I also had more opportunities to spend time with my wife, Em, and daughter, Emma. It is a gift to see Emma grow and blossom.

Jose Mari Chan

I have lost family and friends over the past two years so I am grateful for my good health and that of my family. I am also grateful for God’s gift of music that has enabled me to write Christmas songs that have been embraced by our countrymen, young and old alike.

Kylie Verzosa

This year, I’m grateful for good health and a sound mind and body. I’m grateful for the opportunities I have in the fields of acting, fashion, and my foundation in mental health. I’m very much thankful for my upcoming projects this 2024 and as the year comes to a close, I reflect on these blessings with a deep sense of appreciation.