Finding Meaning in the Journey of Life — Through Gratitude

by Master Zoly Alma Guevara

AlmaA.GMorales@gmail.com

Instagram: @lovelightalma

In a world that constantly measures our worth by achievements, titles, and how far we’ve come compared to others, it’s easy to feel like we’re never quite enough. Social media, productivity culture, and even wellness trends can convince us that the more we do, even when it’s in the name of self-improvement, the more valuable we are. But what if meaning isn’t something we earn? What if it’s something we already hold within us, something that reveals itself when we slow down enough to notice?

We grow up believing in the idea of “once I get there.” Once I achieve this goal, once I figure it all out, then life will finally make sense. But that mindset keeps us chasing an ever- moving horizon, always striving and rarely arriving. Even the routines meant to bring us peace can become part of the pressure when we start comparing our path to others. It’s beautiful to admire those who inspire us, but only when what we do is rooted in love, not in lack.

Because meaning doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from being more of who we truly

are.

For a long time, I forgot that truth. I started singing because I loved it, music was my safe place, my way of talking to God. But as opportunities grew, I began to measure my worth through my achievements. I lost the joy that once filled my heart. Eventually, I realized I wasn’t alone. Many of us tie our sense of value to success, perfection, or comparison. We tell ourselves, “Once I get there, then I’ll be happy.” Yet while we’re focused on what’s missing, we forget to see what’s already here.

Gratitude changed that for me. I began to notice the miracle that I even had music in my life, that I could sing, feel, and connect through sound. Slowly, meaning started to appear in the simplest moments: the warmth of morning coffee, sunlight through the window, a message from someone who cares, or simply waking up to another day. Those small moments brought me back to myself. They reminded me that I am not what I achieve. I am who I am when I’m fully present—and that is enough.

Over time, I’ve learned a few truths about meaning. First, presence matters more than perfection. We don’t have to wait for everything to align before allowing ourselves to feel alive. Meaning lives in the messy, honest, imperfect moments of life. Second, connection is our compass. We are not meant to do this alone, surround yourself with the people who will make your journey even more meaningful. And third, our creativity and contribution matter, no matter how small. Our gifts don’t have to be perfect—they just have to be shared. When we give from the heart, even the simplest act becomes meaningful.

When life feels heavy, gratitude doesn’t ask us to ignore pain. It invites us to find light within it. Even on difficult days, we can ask, “What’s one thing still supporting me right now?” Sometimes it’s as simple as our breath, our faith, or the sunrise.

Gratitude, I’ve come to realize, is not just a feeling, it’s a way of returning to yourself. When

we stop chasing meaning, we start creating it. When we stop fighting the moment, we start

living it. Our worth isn’t found in success, perfection, or achievement, it’s found in the quiet

knowing that our life matters, right here, right now.

Love, Light,

ALMA