And I’m 40! I loved the first 39 years, with the good and the bad. I laughed a lot, cried a lot, shared a lot. But most importantly, whatever I experienced, I felt it deeply. 

As I blew the candles and listed my wishes for the future, I thought about all that I felt grateful for. I was lucky as they were many. And I was lucky enough to know that I was the one creating them. 

I am grateful that I always listened to my inner voice. 

I am grateful that I showed my love to my loved ones.

I am grateful that I married for love.

I am grateful that I discovered that words can heal everything. 

I am grateful that I learned to live simply.

I am grateful that I cherished moments. 

I am grateful that I always chose what was real.

I am grateful that I was brave enough to walk away from what didn’t feel right.

I am grateful that I said what I felt.

I am grateful that I went after everything that made my heart race faster.

I am grateful that I was born. 

And as Nazim said, I hope my best days are yet to come. 

Begüm