As the Christmas season surrounds us with warmth and light, I find myself reflecting on the invaluable lessons this year has taught me—chief among them the power of gratitude. In a year marked by moments of loss, challenges, and healing, I have come to understand that gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion but a transformative way of living.
The Gift of Health
Health, as I have learned, is the foundation of everything. Without it, even the simplest joys can feel out of reach. This week, as I have walked the path of recovery, I have learnt to celebrate each breath, each step, and each moment of progress. I whisper, “Thank you, Lord,” not just for the big milestones but for the small, everyday miracles— the turning of my body without pain, the ability to sit up, the ability to join in the laughter, the warmth of sunlight, the fresh air, the support of loved ones, and the strength to keep going.
Health is the greatest wealth we possess and caring for it requires a foundation of gratitude. When we appreciate our bodies and nurture them, we align ourselves with a life of joy, fulfilment, and balance. To anyone struggling with their health, I want to say this: cherish every moment of progress, no matter how small. Every step forward is a victory worth celebrating.
The Transformative Power of Gratitude
Gratitude shifts your focus from what you lack to what you already have. It opens your eyes to the beauty around you, even during hardship. For me, it has been the anchor that steadied me through stormy seas. Losing a dear friend earlier this year reminded me of life’s fragility and the importance of cherishing every moment we’re given with loved ones.
To the individuals and families who supported me during the loss of my best friend, your compassion carried me through one of the darkest moments of my life.
Gratitude isn’t just about reflection; it’s about action. It’s about looking at the people and opportunities in your life and saying, “I appreciate you.” To the friends who helped me in many difficult situations, and recently when I missed a flight to a dear friend’s 50th birthday celebration—your generosity showed me the goodness in humanity.
Gratitude in Personal and Professional Development
This year has continued to deepen my understanding of personal development as a journey of self-discovery and gratitude. Understanding myself as a spirit. Further training in NLP and Timeline Therapy, I have learnt that our past doesn’t define us—it teaches us. The lessons we extract from our experiences become the building blocks for our future.
To my Platinum family, who have joined me in the bold mission to taking the phenomenal Hui Hui Lek to Africa, your courage and dedication to creating a brighter future for the world are nothing short of extraordinary. Together we build bridges that will impact lives across continents. Your unwavering support reminds me that we’re never alone on this journey.
To my teachers this year – many of you are if not all of you. Thank you for the learnings. You have expanded my understanding of personal transformation—thank you for equipping me with tools to not only navigate my own challenges but also help others find their own breakthroughs. To my marketing students and university colleagues, thank you for allowing me to share what I have learned, reinforcing the truth that teaching is one of the greatest forms of gratitude. To all those that have expanded my reach by offering the opportunities to guest speak or train.
To the women in Stellar Woman Mindfulness Book Club and IWAW Club– you create a steady provision for deep reflection and intentional growth. Another family that allows me to explore and give my true self. Thank you.
To my Stellar Woman expert contributors thank you for your continuous provision, brilliance and commitment to empowering other women to dream bigger and shine brighter.
To the Stellar Woman Magazine and Show stellar guests, wow! Thank you for making this dream a reality. Your generosity and openness to this wild dream has made me believe in the impossible. Your light will continue to shine.
To the Stellar Woman Academy clients, thank you for trusting me to guide you on your journeys of Alignment to Divine Purpose, Empowerment and Brand and legacy development. You remind me daily of the importance of living with purpose.
To my Stellar Woman team, there wouldn’t be Stellar Woman Magazine and Show without you. My deep Appreciation.
To my friends, how would life be without each one of you?
Lessons in Gratitude
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that gratitude is a skill that can be cultivated. Here are some practices that have helped me this year and that I encourage you to try:
- Celebrate Progress Over Perfection
Whether it’s recovering from an illness, learning a new skill, or healing emotionally, celebrate the small wins. They add up to monumental achievements. - Be Grateful for Challenges
Every difficulty holds a lesson. When you face adversity, ask yourself, “What can I learn from this? How can this make me stronger?” - Express Gratitude Regularly
Thank those who impact your life—teachers, mentors, family, and friends. A simple note or word of appreciation can make all the difference. - Give Back
True gratitude is not just about receiving; it’s about giving. Whether through mentorship, kindness, or acts of service, paying it forward amplifies the blessings in your life.
A Season for Gratitude
As we celebrate Christmas, let’s remember that the greatest gifts we have are often intangible: health, love, and connection. Let’s honour this season by practising gratitude—not just for what we’ve received but for the opportunities we have to give, grow, and connect.
To my family, who provide deeper meaning to life and remind me of what truly matters—thank you for being my greatest inspiration. You’re my rock!
To everyone who has crossed my path this year, whether in joy or sorrow, your presence has been a gift. As we step into a new year, let us carry forward this spirit of gratitude and use it to build lives filled with purpose, health, and love.
The Promise of 2025
As we step into a new year, I carry with me a renewed commitment to honour my health and to live with gratitude. Health is the foundation of all wealth and gratitude is the key that unlocks the fullness of life.
Wishing you a Christmas season filled with gratitude, and a New Year that overflows with blessings.
With heartfelt love,
Stella Kikoyo