A Gift or a Testament to Dedication?

The other evening, my cherished puppy Quila was lying peacefully in front of the Christmas tree. She wasn’t asleep—just quietly relaxing while keeping a loving eye on me. As the time for her evening treat approached, I turned to her. She lifted her head, made direct eye contact, and smiled in the way only a beloved dog can. I couldn’t help but ask her, “What did I do to deserve you?”

Quila has brought so much life, clarity, and love into my world over the past year and a half. In that moment of gratitude, I was struck by a realization: while Quila feels like a “gift” in many ways, her presence in my life wasn’t mere luck. It was the result of careful thought, intention, and dedication.

It had been 20 years since I’d had a dog in my home, and Quila didn’t just show up on my doorstep. I spent over a year reflecting on whether I was ready for a dog, followed by months researching breeds, considering what type of dog would suit me, and evaluating if I had the time and energy to devote to raising and training a puppy.

Once I decided, the process became even more focused: researching breeders, applying, and waiting for the perfect litter. I even had a list of over 40 names, which I painstakingly narrowed down to “Quila.” Every step required intention and effort.

Embracing Joy and Acknowledging Effort

Quila has been a source of daily joy and a bright reminder to live in the present. But as I reflected on the journey that brought her into my life, I realized how often we overlook our own role in creating happiness.

How often do we attribute the good in our lives to chance, luck, or some unknown force? We diminish our own efforts, forgetting the hard work and choices that allowed us to create space for the things we cherish. Society, particularly for women, often encourages us to downplay our accomplishments in the name of humility, leaving us hesitant to celebrate what we’ve achieved.

Owning Our Accomplishments

It’s time we shift that mindset. Acknowledging our role in shaping our lives—no matter how big or small the accomplishment—does wonders for our confidence and self-esteem.

Quila’s presence reminds me daily of the importance of gratitude, but also the value of owning the effort it takes to build a life aligned with my values. Whether it’s a loving pet, a meaningful career, or a deep relationship, these things don’t just “happen.” They are the result of intention, dedication, and hard work.

So, as you reflect on the joys in your life, ask yourself: How can I give myself credit for the life I’ve designed? How can I honor the effort it took to create the space for these amazing things?

Let’s celebrate the beauty we bring into our lives—one thoughtful, intentional step at a time.