She tried to brush it off at first. She felt that her children had taken her for granted — not doing housework, not completing their homework, and even failing to acknowledge her presence. She was agitated but tried to suppress her irritation. However, her frustration with her children accumulated over time. The straw that broke the camel's back? They forgot to buy their grandmother a birthday gift despite repeated reminders. Exasperated, she chided them fiercely. Her normally boisterous children fell quiet, intimidated by her animated gestures and loud, booming voice.

When opportunities approach you, take the bull by the horns and make the best of them. No doubt, you will fail at times and feel disappointed. However, remember that appreciation is the opposite of ingratitude. When we have a grateful heart, we will be able to find value in our failures!

Punching my fists triumphantly in the air (overjoyed), I hugged my teammates. We had won the interclass relay! No need to fight down the overwhelming feelings of panic (nervous) anymore. I thanked my coach profusely (gratitude).