What is Gratitude?

A year ago, I used to dread waking up every morning. Being unemployed has been one of the most difficult things I've had to endure. Apart from being financially dependent on my parents, I felt juvenile and worthless. All I wanted was a chance, yet every opening I seemed to find kept closing up on me.

Many wouldn't believe me when I say that for months after arriving back from Korea, I saw no colour. Everything seemed grey through my eyes. As much as I wanted to feel grateful for all that I DID have, I still felt worthless and rejected. I had no idea that being unemployed would have such a crippling effect on me.

Today, the 1st of June, reminds me of how far I have come in the past year.

I am thrilled to write that these days I can't wait to wake up in the morning. My alarm goes off at 04:30 and I feel excited to get my day started.

Once again, I am able to appreciate the breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, the birds chirping and the waft of ocean air that fills my apartment in the wee hours of the morning.

I'm overflowing with gratitude and as a result, my senses are awake and alive. I wake up with a purpose now. Every morning, my colleagues expect to see me in the staff room and my +/- 25 students expect me to teach them everyday.
I'm thankful every single day that not only do I have a job, but that I'm doing something that I truly enjoy putting my heart into. I'm grateful for the opportunity to provide a service to others and that by doing so, I'm meeting people from all walks of life. I love that I'm learning just as much, if not more, as what I teach everyday.

So as this day comes to an end, I'd like to shout it out to the universe that I'm grateful for the opportunities, challenges and obstacles I've faced up to now. I also feel grateful for being rejected for work last year, most of which I doubt I'd be half as happy as I am today.

Also, credit must be given where it's due, and I have to say that nothing would be possible without the support - on so many levels - of my parents whom I love with my heart & soul!