Grateful for 2024 via /r/gratitude

In a lot of ways, this was the worst year of my life. My long-term partner broke up with me, I completely lost my sense of self, and my health issues have been a nightmare due to stress.

But at the same time? 2024 was exactly what I needed. My relationship was hurting both of us and holding us back. I’m back in therapy. I’m making consistent effort to become someone I like being. I have made amazing friends and found a great community. My health is concerning, but I’m taking steps to look after myself better. I joined a gym! I went to pride for the first time! I am going by my preferred name and pronouns!

2024 was a wake up call – if I’m unhappy, I should change things. My happiness matters, my feelings matter, my dreams matter. I devalued everything about myself for so long, (and let people take me for granted) and 2024 was a punishment for that, but I am learning exactly what I need to from it.

It’s tempting to look back, and be sad certain things are over, but I’m trying to be grateful. I’m glad for the good times I had with my ex, but I’m glad it ended before we hurt each other in worse ways. I’m grateful I’m not still in that relationship, I’m not still that person. I still regret a lot of things, but I’m accepting that I can’t change them.

Anyone else in the same boat? It feels weird to be grateful for such a painful year, but I am. I’m still sad, still angry, but grateful too.