Seeing Gratitude Through A Different Lens

Today marks our 4th day in Bhutan, and it seems right to attempt to put down some words to describe the emotions that we have been experiencing. This evening, after a night spent in the dorms at Ugyen Academy, I gave the students two questions to answer.

(1) I have changed my mind about…
(2) I am stronger now because…

A few of their thoughtful responses are below.

I’m stronger now because, even though I was so nervous about visiting the Bhutanese school, I learned just how incredible it was to be there. Before arriving, I worried I’d feel out of place, unsure if I would connect with anyone or if I’d just be the weird international student intruding on their lives. But honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever felt like I belonged somewhere more. From the moment I stepped into the school, I was welcomed with open arms, and any fear I had quickly faded.

One of the most amazing people I met was my friend Tashi. When I first saw her, I wasn’t sure if we would get along, but the more we talked, the more I realized how much we had in common. From our favourite TV shows to the most random opinions we shared, our conversations never felt forced. And it wasn’t just her, everyone I met was so warm, kind, and open-hearted.

The sense of community here is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Even in classes I wasn’t familiar with, I never once felt out of place. My classmates helped me whenever I needed it, and even when we weren’t working, we had the most interesting and fun conversations. Whether we were talking about school, life, or just joking around, there was never a moment where I felt like an outsider. I’ve made so many new friends in such a short time, and that’s what makes this experience both beautiful and heartbreaking. I’m stronger now because I had to say goodbye to people who made such a meaningful impact on me. Even though we’ve only known each other for 24 hours, the friendships I built here feel so real and lasting, and I know I will cherish them for a lifetime. Saying goodbye wasn’t easy, I know no matter if they are across the world I will cherish these memories I’ve made.

Written by Sophia T. (St. Mildred’s Lightbourn School)

I have changed my mind about the way I see the world since arriving in Bhutan. Being here, surrounded by mountains, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and the quiet hum of a slower, more intentional way of life, I realize how much I’ve taken for granted. Back home, life moves fast—always chasing the next goal, the next task, the next achievement. But here, time feels different. People seem to live with a deep sense of contentment, not because they have more, but because they are present in what they have.

Bhutan’s philosophy of Gross National Happiness isn’t just an abstract idea—it’s something you can feel. The people I’ve met are kind, warm, and genuinely interested in connection. There is a sense of balance between nature, spirituality, and daily life that makes me question the way I’ve been conditioned to view success. Maybe fulfillment isn’t in constant striving but in being fully present, in finding joy in simplicity.

As I walk through Bhutan and listen to the prayer wheels turning, I wonder: What if I slowed down? What if I measured my days not by productivity, but by presence? What if happiness isn’t something to chase but something to cultivate in the moments I already have?

Written by Katie H. (St. Mildred’s Lightbourn School)

Bhutan is beautiful inside and out, but it’s a different beauty from home. When I first came to Bhutan, I was told it would be life-changing. Kind, calm and spiritual. Now that I am here it is all that and more. I bet at this time that I only understand and appreciate half of what Bhutan has to offer, yet in the future, all the small things will click and impact me more. Here in Bhutan happiness isn’t your peak exciting times in life. It also isn’t at your sad, darkest times. It’s when you are a peace with yourself and everything around you. Happiness is perceived in so many ways, just like how we all perceive others and places before we truly understand.

Written by Alessia M. (St. Mildred’s Lightbourn School)

I am stronger now because I have lived another life while staying at Ugyen Academy. I had the opportunity to experience a whole new look into the student’s everyday life and it’s hard. It truly is an eye-opening experience and a unique one. The dedication, strength and gratitude these students display completely changed my outlook on everyday things I take for granted. I got to see countless virtues displayed by these students every day and this is what gave me the strength to go beyond gratitude and take in every moment as it passes. I am stronger now that I have seen gratitude through a different lens.

Written by Reese W. (St. Mildred’s Lightbourn School)

I have changed my mind about how different we, people are. I have really noticed the unified experiences the human race faces. Despite being across the globe, the people of Bhutan aren’t aliens of a different planet. They are like us. I stopped thinking about the common stereotypes we all have in our minds. I started to get to know them. This reality really struck me when I spent some time at the school with the students. They showed us how they lived, and I must admit it was pretty foreign to me. Once I sat down and began to talk, really talk, I slowly started to understand that they weren’t so different from me. They were teenagers and so were we. I was able to lower my guard quite a bit and connect. Teen to teen. We are one species living on this earth, unified.

Written by Mackenzie C. (Havergal College)

I have changed my mind about people in general.  Back in Canada, or more so in my life, I had a certain perception of people that made them all seem selfish.  When visiting the Ugyen Academy, everyone was so holy and sincerely welcoming and kind, without even expecting anything in return. That was hugely different from what I expected, and perhaps used to, and though doubts did form in my mind, I believe that they really do live and act this way. This doesn’t fully change how I view people, but it’s a good counterargument and one that will stay with me for a long time.  Written by XF C. (St. Mildred’s Lightbourn School)

I’m still curious: What does it mean to be Buddhist? How did Bhutan become a country? Who have they fought with? How come their goal is to preserve but their main income is tourism? What is Bhutan’s true goal? The answer to that one will likely be happiness. You hear everyone say they are truly happy here, but what does happiness mean? It means something different to everyone right? But what does it mean to me? How do I feel the actual feeling of happiness? Where in my body is it? Is it a mindset? can I change my mindset to be happy? What are these emotions? As I write this I remember that Bhutan’s goal is balance- not too happy and not too sad. Once again same question… What is this feeling? Where in my body, how in my body? How do I make my mind and body one?

Anonymous