In the height of my worries tonight, that simple reminder came to me again: no mud, no lotus.

This city has been baked in summer heat for nearly two weeks. Then suddenly—tonight—the rain came. Heavy rain. Not for long, but just enough. The smell of grass and trees rose up like a song, and I couldn’t help but feel lighter… calmer.

It felt like a message. A reminder that there’s no rainbow without rain. These challenges I’m facing—these tangled, uncomfortable parts of life—are shaping me. Slowly, yes. But still, I’m growing. And that counts.

I believe my prayers have been heard. Things are unfolding in the best way—for me, and for those closest to me.

Karin Sabrina