We have a lot to be thankful for in 2019; we're so appreciative

Jeongyeon, the voice and heart of her group, once declared with deep humility: “We have a lot to be thankful for in 2019; we're so appreciative to have received the awards we have this year, and of course we are very thankful to everyone who loves K-pop and supports our music.” These words are more than a passing reflection on trophies and applause. They are a recognition of the sacred bond between artist and audience, and of the truth that gratitude is the crown that gives meaning to every achievement.

The origin of this statement lies in the rise of TWICE, one of the most beloved groups in the world of K-pop. In 2019, their efforts bore fruit in the form of international recognition and numerous awards. Yet Jeongyeon did not speak only of triumphs measured by titles; she spoke also of the invisible force that makes music live—the unwavering love of the fans. To be thankful for support is to acknowledge that music is not complete in the singer’s voice, but in the heart of the listener who receives it.

History offers many parallels. Consider the legendary Beethoven, whose works shook the foundations of music. When his Ninth Symphony was performed in Vienna, the applause was thunderous, yet he himself could not hear it, being deaf. It was not the sound that gave the moment its meaning, but the visible love of the audience whose hearts his music had touched. Or think of Shakespeare, who, though immortalized today, once depended on the applause of London’s common people to keep his theatre alive. Like Jeongyeon, they too understood that art survives because of those who embrace it.

At the core of Jeongyeon’s words is the teaching that success is shared. Awards are not only the fruit of the artist’s labor but also of the audience’s devotion, of the community that sustains the art, and of the unseen sacrifices made by countless individuals behind the stage. To give thanks is to transform pride into humility, and to remind both the artist and the fans that they are partners in a greater journey.

To the youth who pursue dreams, this quote is a guiding light: when your efforts bear fruit, do not let arrogance blind you. Remember always the people who believed in you, who encouraged you, who lifted your spirit when doubt arose. Be thankful for their love, for without them, your victories would be hollow. Gratitude keeps the heart soft, even in the midst of great achievement.

To those who support and uplift others, this message is a blessing. Your love, your loyalty, your encouragement are not in vain. Every cheer, every act of faith, every moment of support gives life to someone’s dream. Just as Jeongyeon’s gratitude honored the fans of her music, so too should every leader, artist, and creator remember to honor those who sustain them.

The eternal wisdom here is this: gratitude is the highest award of all. Titles, trophies, and recognition fade with time, but the bond between artist and audience, teacher and student, leader and people—this endures. Jeongyeon’s words are a reminder that true greatness is not measured only in what we achieve, but in how deeply we remember to give thanks for the love that carried us there.

Thus, let this teaching be carried forward: when you rise, give thanks; when you are honored, honor others; when you are loved, cherish it. For gratitude transforms fleeting triumphs into eternal legacy, and binds human hearts together in a song that will never fade.