Remember the first time you got your period? Most likely, you were scared and confused.

I was only 12 and confused when you arrived for the first time. I didn't know you even existed, so I was quite scared, to say the least. After my mother explained that I wasn't dying and gave me a pad, she told me it was natural for you to visit once a month. But nothing about you felt natural. I struggled with the leaks and the cramps, still new to the way my body was changing. And I won't lie - I hated you for the longest time. I dreaded your arrival each month and all the superstitions made me think you were dirty and impure.

But now I know better. I still get annoyed with you from time to time, but I know how important you are to my health. I'm no longer governed by superstitions. Now, I'm free to marvel at my body's capability to bleed and still get everything done! I know now how powerful you are; that there's nothing impure about you. You make me strong and resilient. Also, now I'm so relieved when you arrive each month. It means I'm healthy and on the right path!

Most of us have a complex relationship with menstruation. More often than not, we really don't know how to feel about it. But the more that we mature and learn about the intricate workings of the female body, we can't help but marvel at the immense power the period holds in keeping us healthy and thriving. So, despite all the troubling side effects, shouldn't we be grateful instead of begrudging? Here's an open letter to periods. To mark all the struggles we have faced, all the learnings we had on the way and, lastly, to express our gratitude for everything our period regulates in our bodies and the beautiful miracle of life it enables us to create.