Lesson #7 - Gratitude is a magnet for the things we truly need

 


Gratitude has been the quiet force guiding my life. Through every challenge, every loss, and every triumph, it has shaped how I see the world and how I move forward.

Early Lessons in Gratitude

My journey began with loss, I lost my mum at the tender age of two. Growing up in East London with my dad and extended family, while the rest of my family lived in Durban, meant navigating a very different family dynamic. Yet I was blessed with my ma, who raised me, gave me a home, and surrounded me with love. For that, I will always be grateful.

School was not easy. I often felt like the “different” kid, struggling to fit in. But even then, gratitude showed up, in the opportunity to attend a semi-private school despite the challenges my dad faced with employment.

Gratitude Through Growth

At university, I relied on public transport, worked part-time, and pushed myself to be better. I was grateful for every opportunity to advance, for the support system that carried me through, and for the job that built my character, even when it pushed me far outside my comfort zone.

Later, moving to Durban to study further, I lived in a granny flat with a young couple and their children. I worked as a lecturer while studying part-time. It was a challenging season, but I felt blessed to be surrounded by good people who supported me.

Travel also became a profound teacher in my journey of gratitude. I was fortunate to explore both locally and abroad, each trip shaping me in unique ways. Traveling to India with my dad gave me treasured memories and a deeper appreciation for shared experiences. Exploring Thailand and Europe with my ex taught me lessons about relationships, culture, and resilience. My solo journeys to Spain and London were especially transformative, reminding me of the strength in independence and the joy of discovering who I am when I stand on my own. Each destination, each adventure, was an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to be grateful for the privilege of seeing the world through new eyes.

Marriage came early, with a romanticized view of life. Reality was harder, navigating finances, family dynamics, and relationship challenges. In those years, I learned what a lack of gratitude can invite into your life. Divorce was painful, but reflection guided me back to gratitude, teaching me to value even the lessons born from struggle.

Gratitude in Times of Crisis

When Covid hit, living alone brought sharp awareness of life’s fragility. Gratitude became my anchor, for breath, health, loved ones, kindness, generosity, and love. It was during this time that I embarked on a deeper journey of self-discovery, meeting new people, redefining relationships, and learning what truly served me. Gratitude paved the way forward.

Moving into my own place was another turning point. My haven, filled with light, joy, and freedom. I am eternally grateful that both my ma and dad experienced my home before illness struck. My ma settled me in, prayed over my space, and created treasured memories. My dad bonded with me over painting and home improvements. These moments are priceless, and I cherish them deeply.

Losing both my loved ones within two and a half years was heartbreaking. Yet gratitude softened the grief, it reminded me of the precious time we shared, the love they gave, and the ways they shaped me.

Retrenched. Resilient. Rising

Later, retrenchment tested me again. It was life-changing, but gratitude propelled me forward. In my reflections, I realized that gratitude was not just about saying “thank you”, it was about showing up with resilience, faith, and grace.

I expressed gratitude for the support of family and friends, for the kindness shown to me, and for the chance to rebuild. Gratitude became the lens through which I saw opportunity instead of loss. It gave rise to new ventures, photography, tutoring, and a new professional role where I feel I am making a difference.

In that season, I learned that gratitude is not passive, it is active. It is choosing to see possibility in the midst of uncertainty. It is being a beacon for others, even when your own path feels unclear. Gratitude was the bridge that carried me from retrenchment to resilience, and ultimately, to rising stronger.

Gratitude as a Compass

And amidst all this, I found love again. A partner I cherish, as we navigate the complexities of life together. Gratitude reminds me daily of how blessed I am to have him by my side.

The Lesson

Lesson #7: Gratitude Is a Magnet for the Things We Truly Need.

Gratitude has carried me through loss, challenges, and change. It has been the compass pointing me toward growth, love, and fulfillment. When we choose gratitude, we shift our perspective. We stop focusing on what’s missing and start seeing the abundance already present.

Gratitude doesn’t erase pain, but it transforms it. It doesn’t remove challenges, but it strengthens us to face them. And it doesn’t just attract blessings, it teaches us to recognize them.

So, let gratitude be your daily practice. Let it guide your steps, soften your heart, and open your life to the things you truly need.


~ Nerusha

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