Gratitude To Two Most Important Things In My Life

The past few days have been a journey of reflection and appreciation. Two things, in particular, have filled me with immense gratitude, and I feel compelled to express my thanks publicly.

1. Google

Google has been a defining chapter in my professional life. Joining them in January 2020 connected me to an incredible network. From day one, I was fortunate to learn from some of the brightest minds in computer science. They fostered a collaborative environment, patiently guiding me to become a valuable contributor. Their years of experience never translated to condescension.

It's true, I have reservations about the broader structures of large corporations in the capitalistic world. However, Google's internal culture feels unique. It's a collaborative community, where everyone works together to share the fruits of our combined efforts. Imagine a large, supportive family – that's the feeling Google fosters. I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunities here. Their generous compensation, exceeding anything I could have expected, has brought financial independence and the respect of my friends and family members. Today, I lead one of Google's most revenue-critical data pipelines in Mountain View – a testament to the trust they've placed in me. This wouldn't be possible without the contributions of the amazing googlers.

I understand some may view Google, like many multinational corporations, with a critical eye.  However, the positive experiences within Google, shaped by the incredible people I've worked with, deserve acknowledgement. It may seem contradictory to feel such loyalty to a corporation, but my gratitude is truly for the individuals who have mentored and supported me. It's a tribute to their positive impact, not blind loyalty to the company itself.

2. The United States of America

It can be frustrating to hear stereotypes when I tell people in India that I live in the US. Some assume I ran away from family obligations, labeling me an "escapist". The truth is, I came to the US after a difficult heartbreak in India. Needing a fresh start, I sought a change and a chance to heal. Thankfully, Google supported my decision by transferring me to Mountain View, California. My move wasn't about escaping problems, but about taking responsibility for my family's well-being - a responsibility I'm proud to fulfill.

The US has become a second home. Coming from humble beginnings, restarting in a new environment initially scared me. However, America surprised me with its welcoming nature. Within months, I met a diverse group of people, each with unique stories. Their openness, sharing their journeys, fostered quick connections and a new perspective on life. I was forced to have an open mind to interpret the world through their eyes - this is also a very important skill that I learned in the recent years which has heavily contributed to my empathy skills.

The past three years have been transformative. America has strengthened me to face challenges (like the recent recession), educated me to appreciate life's simplicity, and instilled the courage to face responsibilities head-on. Despite its individualistic nature, American society fosters immense respect for diverse opinions. People truly have the freedom of expression. There is a strong emphasis on the inclusion of people from different backgrounds (this is not perfect but certainly the best that I could find on this planet).

Despite America's capitalist system, I've been fortunate to meet incredible people dedicated to serving others. National park rangers protect the natural wonders and professors in the world-renowned institutions dedicate their life towards research for societal benefit. These individuals, like many in America, prioritize purpose and contribution over pure financial gain. Their dedication embodied Mahatma Gandhi's wisdom:

The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.

The people of America further instilled in me the importance of living in the present moment without worrying about the future, fostering trust and respect for others, finding liberation from the duality of happiness and distress, and working selflessly for the betterment of society. They exemplified a life of purpose and contribution. That's why, no matter where life takes me in future, I'll forever be grateful for the US's role in shaping who I am becoming.