Two years ago, I penned a post, a post that would be my last for so long. It was the end of the year, and I was sharing all I was grateful for. Should you be inclined, you can explore it here. Despite the pandemic, numerous good things graced my life. However, nestled within that entry was a cliffhanger in the concluding paragraph hinting at a darker turn of events.
Many seasons have certainly gone by, but I still remember how it hurt then to lose so much money to what I know now as a scam investment. In pursuing financial growth, I learned, like many would agree, that investing is key to wealth and not just stacking your money in the bank as savings.
So, when I came across this seemingly innocuous agro-tech investment opportunity, endorsed by a popular financial learning platform, I was quite pleased. In retrospect, I can see that I did the bare minimum research, but for me, I was supporting a profitable homegrown business and dove right in.
Initially, everything seemed promising. The high return on investment, constant communication with investors, and feedback from investors who had visited the company site were great. But, the bubble burst, and the grim reality set in—they couldn’t pay investors. I found myself grappling with the consequences of a significant financial loss, more than half of my savings that were invested, were gone. It was a painful lesson in the unpredictability of investments and the importance of due diligence.
Interestingly, everyone who has heard me tell this tale would empathetically say, I am young, I would recover, it would only make me a seasoned investor. And while I believe them, as I am nearly healed, it is crazy how one can lose almost all they have in the twinkle of an eye because of a bad choice or choices.
Regrettably, this wasn’t my sole encounter with financial setbacks. Other similar investments and my foray into the world of cryptocurrency (gratefully steering clear of the NFT craze), left me with additional scars. Yet, these experiences have molded me into a wiser and more cautious steward of my finances. I had to employ some strategies though.
In revisiting this chapter of my journey, I’ve come to understand that time not only heals wounds but also imparts wisdom. It took a long while to get to this point where I don’t think of the loss and feel gloomy, but I am there, and I know that where there is life there is hope. I have re-strategized when it comes to financial growth, trying to make decisions rooted in wisdom and prudence. Hopefully, I will not make big gaffes like this in the foreseeable future.
While my financial journey has been tumultuous, one constant has prevailed—the unwavering spirit of gratitude. Regardless of the setbacks and challenges, I acknowledge that I truly have many good things in my life. My heart is grateful for everything I have and am.
This gratitude, I believe, is not just a sentiment but a guiding force that will shape my perspective as I navigate the uncertainties of life. I choose to hold onto this gratitude as an anchor to ground me in moments of uncertainty and a beacon of light that will steer me toward a brighter future.
So, help me, God.
Musings of Chiarmi 