Finding Light in the Shadows: A Journey Through Depression with Gratitude

Life is an unpredictable journey. Some days we wake up with the sun shining in our hearts, and other days, the weight of the world feels unbearable. For those living with depression, these heavy days can feel endless. But here’s the truth that has carried me through my darkest moments: Nothing lasts forever—not the good, not the bad—and this too shall pass.

Living with chronic illness and depression, I’ve learned that positivity isn’t about forcing a smile every day or pretending everything is okay. It’s about finding small moments of gratitude and hope, even when life feels overwhelming. Let me share some thoughts and stories that have helped me navigate the shadows.

The Power of Gratitude

Gratitude doesn’t erase the pain, but it shifts our focus. Instead of dwelling on what’s missing, it reminds us of what’s still here. On my hardest days, I practice something simple: I find one thing to be grateful for.

It might be a warm cup of coffee shared with someone I love, a conversation that made me smile, or the beauty of a sunset casting golden hues across the horizon. Gratitude is like a lantern—it doesn’t eliminate the darkness, but it gives us enough light to take one more step forward.

A Lesson from “This Too Shall Pass”

There’s an old tale about a king who asked his wise men to create a phrase that would help him in both good times and bad. They returned with these words: “This too shall pass.”

When we’re struggling, it’s hard to believe that better days will come. But just as the seasons change, so do our lives. The pain may not vanish overnight, but it will shift, soften, and eventually make room for joy.

Embracing Imperfection

Here’s something we often forget: It’s okay not to feel okay. Depression isn’t a failure, nor does it define who we are. What matters is how we respond to the struggle—how we keep showing up, even when it feels impossible.

I’ve found comfort in the Japanese art of kintsugi, where broken pottery is repaired with gold. The cracks become part of the piece’s history, making it more beautiful, not less. Our own cracks—our struggles and scars—are what make us human and extraordinary.

Small Steps, Big Impact

When depression weighs heavy, even getting out of bed can feel monumental. That’s okay. Start small. Open a window and let in fresh air. Take one deep breath. Write down a single thing you’re grateful for. Call someone who understands.

These small acts might not change everything, but they remind us that we’re still moving forward, however slowly. And forward is enough.

Stories of Hope

I’m inspired by people like Viktor Frankl, who found meaning in the darkest places, and Helen Keller, who overcame unimaginable challenges. Their stories remind me that even when life feels unbearable, there is always a glimmer of hope, waiting for us to notice it.

I think often of the starfish story—a small boy making a difference, one tiny act at a time. Maybe today, you’re that boy. Maybe your small act is simply being here, reading this. That matters.

Choosing Gratitude, Even When It’s Hard

There’s a Wayne Dyer quote I carry with me: “Change the way you look at things, and the things you look at will change.” It’s not about denying reality but shifting how we see it. Even when life is hard, there’s beauty to be found—a kind word, a favorite song, a memory that warms the heart.

Gratitude doesn’t come easily every day, and that’s okay. What matters is that we try. And on the days we can’t, it’s okay to rest. To simply be.

You’re Not Alone

To anyone reading this who is struggling: I see you. I’ve been there, too. Depression can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Whether it’s through connecting with a loved one, finding comfort in nature, or reaching out for support, there are ways to find light again.

Remember: Life is not always easy, but it is always worth it. And even on the hardest days, there is something to be grateful for, however small. One breath, one step, one moment at a time—we move forward.