This study explores how congenitally blind postgraduate students in Pakistan derive meaning in life, experience gratitude, and find joy despite persistent challenges to their education. Using a qualitative design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 16 students from various universities in Pakistan. Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis guided the data interpretation. Three key themes were generated: (1) finding meaning in life, (2) gratitude as a psychological strength, and (3) sources of joy. Participants described gratitude as a vital psychological resource that fosters resilience and well-being. They identified unique pathways to joy through relationships, creativity, and spiritual beliefs. Despite limited institutional support, the participants demonstrated inner strength and purpose. The findings contribute to a culturally contextualized understanding of thriving with congenital blindness and highlight the importance of psychological resources in well-being. This study offers practical implications to enhance the quality of life of visually impaired individuals in Pakistan.
Rafaqat et al. (Wed,) studied this question.