September

This September began with a journey close to my heart—I traveled to Lebanon to spend my birthday with my family, which felt more meaningful than ever. On the day itself, I chose to embark on an adventure with my mother and sister, creating memories that we will carry with us for a lifetime.

I had the privilege of fulfilling two major bucket list goals this year: taking my mother to Umrah and experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Cappadocia from a hot air balloon. These moments were deeply meaningful, not just because they were dreams realized, but because they reminded me of the importance of being present with the people who matter most.

This birthday became more than just marking another year; it was a time for deep reflection. It made me pause and consider how I prioritize my time, energy, and focus. In the fast pace of life and work, it’s easy to lose sight of what really matters.

Taking my mum to Umrah and floating above Cappadocia were more than just checked-off goals; they were about being present, creating lasting memories, and cherishing time with my family. It reminded me that life isn’t about career achievements alone—it’s about the love we share, the moments we experience, and the goals that speak to our hearts.

As I move forward, one quote resonated deeply with me:

“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.” – Maya Angelou

But this month also brought unexpected turmoil. Upon returning to Kuwait, I faced the harsh reality of the war in my country, Lebanon —a country known for its vibrant spirit, where life pulses through every street, where laughter and joy fill the air, where the mountains meet the sea, and where the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture are felt in every shared meal. To see my home, now torn apart by war has dismantled me internally. Although I am physically safe, I am broken into pieces inside, consumed with worry for my loved ones and the future of my homeland.

It is hard to put into words the overwhelming sense of helplessness that comes with being far away while everything you cherish is falling apart. I wake up each day with a heaviness that lingers, knowing that while I am here, protected, my family, my friends, and my people are living in fear and chaos. It feels like part of me is still there, in the streets of my country, with the echoes of memories that now seem so distant.

It’s a strange and painful contrast— being surrounded by safety, by the normalcy of daily life, while feeling utterly powerless, watching from afar as everything you hold dear falls into uncertainty.

In the midst of this chaos, one thing has become clear: we take peace, safety, and even the simplest things for granted. We go through life assuming tomorrow will always come, but we never truly know what the future holds. And it is in moments like these that we realize how precious every moment with the people we love truly is.

In a world filled with uncertainty, this September has reminded me of the fragility of life and the importance of living fully. It is a call to cherish the moments we have with our loved ones, to fulfill the dreams that speak to our hearts, and to tick off the bucket list that we've always pushed aside for "later."