As the first week of the new year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible and adventurous year that was 2024. It has taken me a few days to sit down and write this blog, not because I didn't have thoughts to share but because I was searching for the right meaning and topic to come from my heart. Today, I feel ready to share an experience that has touched me deeply and hopefully will uplift you as we step into 2025 together.
About 10 days ago, one of my senior friends stopped by Namaste Brows and Boutique. He asked me how my Christmas went, and while I was physically tired from all the pop-up shops, I felt emotionally fulfilled with how the year had ended for my business. I jokingly mentioned how I wished I would win the lottery someday so I wouldn’t have to work anymore. We laughed, and in the spirit of humor, he shared his own lottery-winning dream—to travel the world and share the rest with me. I teased him, suggesting he add me to his will. He chuckled and said, “I only have $30 in the bank. You wouldn’t want to be in my will.”
His words caught me off guard. I stopped what I was doing, looked at him, and told him he had to be joking. But he wasn’t. He went on to share that he has no family members and has even told a few friends to simply throw his body in the trash when he passes. I was shocked and saddened. I encouraged him to save a little money each month and told him I was here if he ever needed anything.
Since that conversation, I’ve been reflecting on how someone in a first-world country could have so little. At the same time, I couldn’t help but feel proud of my own journey. Fourteen years ago, I came to the United States from Nepal with nothing. Today, I have a home, a family, a thriving business, and financial stability. It’s been a profound revelation of how far I’ve come, starting over from nothing to a place of comfort and gratitude. Yet, this conversation also reminded me that many people in this country have less than $30 in the bank—or don’t even have a bank account. It’s a sobering reality.
This year, I’ve chosen the word “Grounded” as my word of the year. I want to live with more intention, be present, find peace, and cultivate a grateful heart. Today, as I sat at Namaste Brows and Boutique, the same senior friend stopped by again to wish me a Happy New Year. He asked about my upcoming trip to Nepal, and I eagerly shared my excitement.
In just a few days, I’ll be heading to Nepal to meet the makers behind Namaste Brows and Boutique. I’ll spend time with friends and family, and for the first time, I’ll embark on a hike in the mountains. This trip isn’t just about reconnecting with my roots; it’s about serving others and sharing the blessings I’ve been given. I shared these sentiments with my friend, and he smiled, tearing up as he expressed his own dreams of travel. If he ever won the lottery, he’d visit Ireland, Scotland, and Australia. He also shared his regret of not traveling more when he was younger.
As we talked, my eyes wandered to his grocery bag, where I noticed a bouquet of beautiful flowers. I playfully asked if he had bought them for a girlfriend. With a confident smile, he said, “I bought them for myself.” In that moment, he reminded me of the importance of doing something for yourself. I told him how proud I was of him for this small but meaningful gesture.
Then, he shared something remarkable. “I have $300 in my bank account now,” he said. I was stunned. In less than two weeks, he had gone from $30 to $300, inspired by our casual conversation. He explained that he had stopped buying lottery tickets, saving the money instead. Before he left, I felt an overwhelming wave of emotion. Here was an elderly man, inspired to take control of his finances because of something I had said. It was a powerful reminder of the impact we can have on others, often without even realizing it.
This experience has taught me so much about the power of timing and the ripple effects of our actions. Travel when you have the chance. Share your lessons and blessings generously. Help others whenever you can. As we enter 2025, I carry this story as a reminder not to doubt the power and impact I can have as an individual. This year, I want to do more, give more, and continue to share the blessings I’ve been entrusted with.
Here’s to a grounded, intentional, and impactful 2025. May we all find ways to inspire, uplift, and be grateful for the journey we’re on.
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