If I could have just one wish granted, it would be to carry a deep sense of gratitude for the rest of my life. While many may dream of fame, wealth, or success, I believe that gratitude holds the key to truly experiencing a life of fulfillment and peace. It is a simple yet profound force that shapes our perspective on everything we encounter, allowing us to embrace the present with appreciation and grace. But as vital as gratitude is, maintaining it over time can feel like an elusive task—much like the wings of Icarus, which melted as he flew too close to the sun.
Gratitude is not just about saying “thank you” for the good things that come our way. It is about recognizing the value in every moment, challenge, and opportunity that life presents. Whether it’s a small act of kindness from a stranger or a lesson learned from a difficult situation, gratitude enables us to see the beauty in both the highs and the lows. It empowers us to find meaning in adversity and celebrate victories with humility.
However, the closer we get to achieving success, the easier it becomes to lose sight of gratitude. In the pursuit of goals, we can become so focused on the end result that we forget to appreciate the journey. Like Icarus, who soared too close to the sun with wings of wax and feathers, we can become blinded by ambition and forget the foundation that allowed us to rise. The warmth of achievement can feel so intoxicating that we overlook the importance of the grounding influence that gratitude provides.
This is why my wish is to carry gratitude with me always. It is a reminder that no matter how high I climb or how far I fall, there is something to be thankful for in every situation. Gratitude has the power to keep me humble in success and resilient in failure. It encourages me to pause and reflect on the blessings I often take for granted—health, family, love, and even the simple moments of joy that pass by unnoticed.
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us to chase more—more money, more recognition, more possessions—gratitude serves as a counterbalance. It reminds us that what we have, right here and right now, is enough. It shifts our focus from what is missing in our lives to what is already abundant. When we live in a state of gratitude, we cultivate a mindset of contentment, and with that comes a deeper sense of peace and happiness.
Gratitude is essential for success, not in a material sense, but in the way it allows us to live a life of meaning and connection. It is the invisible thread that ties together the various aspects of our lives, helping us to see the interconnectedness of everything. Without it, success can feel hollow—like a trophy with no weight behind it.
If granted the wish to hold onto gratitude for the rest of my life, I would cherish every moment, every experience, and every person who has shaped my journey. I would remember that no matter how high I soar or how far I fall, gratitude will always guide me back to what truly matters.
In the end, it’s not about how much we achieve, but how deeply we appreciate the life we live.
Atsushi's Life in Korea 