Counting my blessings

As I intern at a Neuro-Psychiatric hospital, I am coming across several mental health patients and witnessing the impact their condition has on them and their family. It has compelled me to look at my life in a new light. We often overlook things which truly make our lives whole and fulfilling. I am sharing these experiences with you and hoping that they give you some food for thought or at the very least, makes you smile.

1. If you have a physically AND mentally healthy and happy family – you have the biggest blessing God can endow upon you. I find myself to be abundantly bestowed and immensely grateful. I couldn’t be thankful enough.
2. Having a loving and supportive spouse is the best thing that’ll happen to you in life. It will change the game on you. Choose wisely and take care of them. You will get what you give – multiplied.
3. Having a sense of purpose in life is more important than having a high paying job which makes you miserable. If you find your “WHY” – you will be intrinsically motivated, productive, and HAPPY in everything you do.
4. If you aren’t content with what you have, no achievement or possession will make you truly happy. I am not asking you to abandon your personal and professional ambitions – get a promotion, establish a new business, make more money, build a new house – growth is very important. But define what is enough to take good care of yourself and your loved ones and be satisfied with it. Knowing what is “enough” is equally important.?
5. It takes absolutely NOTHING to be nice to people and animals. Be good to others. Everything good you do will come back to you in unexpected ways – from unexpected sources. That does not mean that you make grand sacrifices. Just be empathetic, respectful, helpful, and supportive whenever you come across anyone in need. If you are in a position where you can do something for someone else, you are a very fortunate person.
6. Money is a crucial and powerful RESOURCE. It is energy – it changes form. You exchange it for nutrition, roof over your head, a warm bed, medical help, fuel, amusement, good education for your children, comfort and more. Earn it well and spend it wisely. But never mistaken is for power or possession. Do not equate it with status or success. It is a resource – and that’s that.
7. Hard work has no substitute. But don’t overlook the role of LUCK. I was raised to believe that by working hard I can achieve everything. I started believing I can control everything that happens to me if I am professionally successful and financially independent. But during the pandemic I learnt that there are some things which are completely beyond my control. The fact that I and my family are safe – it is sheer luck. I had an insignificant role to play in it – I literally sat home and did nothing. God has been very kind.

So look around, recognise and acknowledge; count your blessings and be grateful.