A Celebration, A Memory, A Prayer

It’s a new week.

Honestly, this past weekend felt so long, so full, and so emotional all at once. Everything was back-to-back, and I’m finally sitting down to reflect on it all.

Just a week ago, I was wrapping up assignments, finishing school, and preparing for graduation. My aunt and cousin came into town to celebrate with me, and having family around made the moment even more special. It was beautiful to feel surrounded by love during such an important milestone in my life.

On Saturday, I graduated from my master’s program — a moment that still feels surreal to say out loud. Then Sunday was Mother’s Day, a day filled with gratitude and reflection as I looked at my son and realized how incredibly blessed I am. And then Monday, May 11th, marked my sister’s fourth-year anniversary since her passing.

As I sit and think about everything, I realize how life can hold celebration and grief in the same breath.

One moment you’re rejoicing, and the next you’re remembering someone deeply missed. But through it all, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude.

I’m thankful to God for bringing me this far. Thankful for the opportunity to have had my sister in my life — for the memories, the laughter, the years we shared together. Though her passing still hurts, I’m grateful for the privilege of having known and loved her.

This season of my life has truly become a season of thankfulness.

Finishing my master’s degree feels especially meaningful because I remember when this journey first began. There were moments I doubted myself and questioned whether I could even make it through. Yet somehow, by God’s grace, I not only started — I finished.

And then there’s my son.

This Mother’s Day, I looked at him and just felt overwhelmed with love. My sweet, beautiful boy brings so much joy, laughter, and light into my life. I often think about how I was pregnant with him when my sister passed away, and how God, in His own way, knew exactly what I would need in that season. Even in grief, He gave me life, hope, and a reason to keep going.

Today, as I reflect on my sister and reminisce on the memories we shared, I find myself smiling. I thank God for the gift of those memories and for the blessing of having done life with her. It truly is a beautiful thing.

If there’s one thing I’m learning, it’s this: there is always a reason to remain thankful.

Not every season is easy. Not every situation feels good or makes sense. Sometimes life hurts deeply. But even in those moments, God remains faithful. He sees all, knows all, and continues to carry us toward wholeness and purpose.

Nothing can separate us from His love.

And maybe that’s the beauty of it all — learning to hold gratitude and grief together, learning to celebrate even while healing, and learning to trust God through every season.

So wherever you are in life right now, I hope you can find a reason to be thankful too. Even in the middle of hardship, there is still hope. There is still love. There is still grace.

And sometimes, simply being here is enough reason to give thanks.

with Love,

Yika ❤️