This book was born from a simple Instagram series. I never imagined it would resonate the way it did.

The idea was inspired by a tradition I’ve kept for years: each New Year’s Eve, I choose a single word to guide me through the year. A word that grounds me when I’m overwhelmed, inspires me when I feel stuck, and gently reminds me of what matters. I usually write it on a sticky note or set it as my computer wallpaper—something small, but steady. When I’m anxious or spiraling, that word pulls me back to centre.

So I started posting the alphabet one letter at a time, each paired with an emotion, a reflection, and an illustration. I never expected what happened next. My inbox overflowed with stories and thank you notes. Messages from strangers saying this little series had become their daily ritual. That it helped them breathe. That it helped them cry. That it helped them heal.