A happy week always passes too quickly. I can’t believe it’s already the third week of 2026. Looking back at the past week, it was truly fulfilling. I filled my days with 75 Hard challenge tasks and enjoyed reading the kind comments every morning. As part of my tradition for this year, I’m going to share one high note and one low note from the past week. Life is a beautiful rhythm, no matter how you experience it.

High Note: A Starry Night of Peace

The absolute high point of my week was a moment I spent alone under a starlit sky. We took a weekend trip to a deep mountain area, far from anywhere. The place was wild and remote, and I haven’t seen so many stars in years. The last time I saw such a starry sky was during a desert trip with a friend back when COVID was still around. Hard to believe that was three years ago now. Time really slips away if we don’t pay attention to it.

I love documenting these memories. It’s a way to hold on to the good moments. On Saturday night, after completing a 12-kilometer hike in the mountains, we went to a local restaurant for dinner. I finished early and decided to walk around, hoping to find a quiet spot to admire the sky. When I was under that vast sky, everything felt so peaceful. Even though I could hear the nearby crowds talking, I felt a sense of calm.

I was alone, but it didn’t feel lonely at all. In that moment, I didn’t want to be disturbed by anyone. When everything feels so beautiful, it makes you want to sing. So, I turned on my phone and sang along to a song I’ve been practicing. I could see the stars blinking back at me. They must have enjoyed my singing as much as I loved it.

Thinking back on that night still fills me with joy and gratitude. Life is beautiful. I used to think that to exist as a person, we had to endure pain. But in that moment, I felt that perhaps all the struggles in life are worth it for moments of beauty like that starry night. If I had the choice to exist or not, I would probably say yes, just for moments like that. It reminded me of La La Land and the pure love it portrays. I’m happy that, in that moment, I was living for myself, not thinking about anyone or anything other than my own happiness. There’s something so wonderful about experiencing life purely for yourself. I’m so grateful for it.

Low Note: A Sprained Back

The low point of my week was when I sprained my back during a lifting session. I felt the strain, but it was too late to do anything about it. I finished the remaining sets and got home to rest and eat. For a while, I was afraid I might have to skip the weekend hiking trip because of the pain. Thankfully, it wasn’t that bad. My back is still a little stiff, but I didn’t miss the trip, and it’s gradually getting better.

It was a good reminder for me to be more intentional with how I move and live. I think I wasn’t paying full attention during the lifting session that morning, as my mind was elsewhere. Whenever I experience discomfort like that, it reminds me that health is so important. We need to take care of our bodies—eat well and stay active. Without health, it’s hard to feel truly happy.

I noticed how much my energy dipped while my back hurt, and how happy I felt when the pain eased. It’s amazing how our bodies can affect our mindset. Taking care of yourself isn’t just physical—it impacts everything.

Gratitude for Both Highs and Lows

Overall, I’m very grateful for everything last week—both the highs and the lows. The high moments bring smiles, and the lows offer wisdom. Both are equally valuable in life. How was your week? I’d love to hear your stories too. I hope you have a wonderful week ahead!