Having a roof over my head is a privilege
This article is part of my December 2020 Gratitude series that help me end this year on a more positive and inspiring note.
Today is going to be a quick one. I’m grateful for having a roof over my head, a warm bed to sleep in, hot water, access to electricity, a sense of security, and the resources that allow me to make my environment beautiful. I often take these things for granted, not realising that I’m more privileged than the 2% of the population who don’t have the luxury of a home. At the same time, recent reports estimate that nearly 1.6 billion people, more than 20% of the world’s population, lack adequate housing.
That number is staggering when you think about it. According to UN-Habitat, over 100 million people are completely homeless, and in many developing regions, one in four people live in informal settlements or slums. Access to safe, stable housing is not just about having shelter. It is directly connected to education, health, employment, and even mental well-being. Studies show that children with secure housing are twice as likely to stay in school, and adults living in stable environments experience much lower levels of stress and anxiety.
Even in wealthy countries, the housing crisis is growing. Rising real estate prices, urbanisation, and stagnant wages make it increasingly difficult for younger generations to own or even rent comfortably. The global housing gap is expected to increase by nearly 400 million units by 2030 unless affordable housing becomes a stronger global priority.
I am also lucky enough to have a toothbrush at seven different houses. It might seem strange, but to me, it is a symbol of always being welcomed somewhere, and that means the world to me. I know I will always have a place to stay, but I never want to take that for granted. My basic needs are met, and even exceeded and for that, I am deeply grateful.
Having a home, whether it is permanent or shared, owned or borrowed, is one of the most profound sources of comfort and belonging. It is easy to overlook, yet it is one of the greatest privileges a person can have.
And what are you grateful for today?
