After I had my knee surgery, it was very difficult for me to do the things I enjoyed—some of which are dancing and playing soccer (my childhood sport). I never believed I would be hurt doing something I loved, but that’s it—life happened.

Now I appreciate every moment I spend using my legs to dance, knowing that it might take me a long time to get back on the field. You never truly understand what others go through until it happens to you.

My prayer is to remind you of how special you are with what you have. It could be the people around you, your body, your beauty, your strength—whatever it is, I pray that you use it well, and I pray for protection as you do.

So, this month is a month of appreciation for everything you have—the things we take for granted until they are taken away from us, and only then do we see their importance.