This Thanksgiving feels especially special. This year carried challenges that were more layered, more unexpected than anything in recent memory. And yet, through all of it, I’m grateful.

Grateful for God being my strength, my unwavering strength. For His grace that has held me in ways nothing else could.

And grateful for the beautiful people He has placed around me. Someone once told me that life is really about the moments. Whether they came as challenges, breakthroughs, or things still unfolding, this year was full of such moments.

The year began with weddings, joy, and unexpected reunions.

Students who showed up with flowers, friends who stayed constant, and a favourite city, Trivandrum, that kept calling me back. There were the little anchors too: book launches, proud moments, gelato conversations, and the people whose timing in my life feels perfectly choreographed.

There were major transitions: leaving WCFA, packing up studios, Mysore days filled with Goobabes, scooter rides with the Manja Keeridam, surprise meals, warm homes, and the unofficial packers-and-movers who made everything easier. There were goodbyes that were hard to accept, and a move back home after years a strange blend of rest and restlessness.

Then came the openings: the Portrait of the City workshop, the kindness of people who hosted me like family, writing work that kept me engaged, Chennai trips, birthdays, carrot cakes, and moments that quietly rebuilt my confidence.

And once again, Trivandrum not just memories now, but a city that welcomed me back with new people, new fellowship, new warmth.

And one of the biggest gifts this year: restarting my music lessons.

I was carried this year by so many hands: family, students, friends, mentors, colleagues, hosts, prayer partners, tea companions, encouragers, each one adding light exactly when I needed it.

I still don’t know what’s next, but here’s what I do know:

I’m surrounded. I’m strengthened. I’m guided.

And for every single person who showed up in calls, through reels, meals, drives, prayers, laughter, and those small everyday gestures, I’m grateful beyond words.

This Thanksgiving, my heart is full because God never stopped showing up through all of you.