Earlier this year, I had a thought-provoking conversation with my younger brothers, Shadman Sakib Sorbo And Shahriar Khan Sazid, about managing people’s expectations. Shorbo made an insightful observation that has stayed with me: “Bhaia, most of the time, we don’t understand whether what we are receiving from others is something we truly deserve or if we are privileged to get it.”

I found myself reflecting on this deeply, and I realized this is one of the most valuable pieces of wisdom I’ve come across in 2024. It speaks to a fundamental aspect of our relationships and our own growth.

We often fail to recognize when in life we are privileged and when we deserve something. There are countless moments when people around us do things for us—sometimes out of love, sometimes out of obligation, and sometimes just because they can. It is crucial to distinguish whether these actions are a result of what we have earned or simply a privilege extended to us by others.

This self-awareness is a significant part of maturing. When we deserve something, it reflects our achievements, efforts, and hard work. However, when we are privileged, it is an offering from someone else—a gift, an opportunity, a kindness. We must learn to treat these privileges with respect and gratitude, never taking them for granted.

This reflection has taught me that gratitude and understanding are vital to how we navigate our relationships and how we grow as individuals. It is not just about receiving; it’s about knowing why and appreciating the source of what we receive.