My former self would surely look down upon my present self, who now endeavors to write a gratitude list. I didn't make one, not because I didn't feel grateful, but because I was so contented with my existing fortunes - until the realization comes to me that these cherished gifts could dissolve into nothingness in any minute.
And time goes by, I have come to appreciate the importance of managing my own expectations. I have aquired wisdom that the world keeps changing, and how truely lucky it is to be able to write down something that I still have at this moment of time.
I am grateful for being healthy enough to experience the world at almost full capacity. I have a sprained ankle now and a bit of toothache, but they don't deter me from walking, watching, listening, touching and feeling all things out there. As long as I choose mindfully to concentrate on the present, I can breathe in all senses that are available to me. The world is my oyster.
I don't have a good personality. I get emo easily, I am shy and introverted and don't have great social skills. I am grateful that I met my best friends when I was young and can still keep most of them by my side (mentally). I remember being complained by two different exes about me putting my friends before them. I don't regret that.
My family is not modern at all, and I am annoyed by them being helicopter parents up until now. I would not say we have an excellent relationship, but deep down, I hope they are happy and keep being foolish.
I am lucky enough to enter an industry that is prosperous in the city (although the package is still far less competitive than techs and finance etc). I can afford most things I want without really having an impact on my livelihood. I don't have a strong desire for material pleasure so I am living well above my expectations anyway.
I don't have a very clear goal for my life, but I am grateful that I've found some things that I like to do. Skateboard, scuba diving, snowboarding, football, board game... I am grateful for being curious enough to keep exploring what the world has to offer, although in a prolonged and careful way.