It’s not Thanksgiving, or even the month of November; the season when we typically see people expressing thankfulness for the abundance that we have in this life. But I have some thoughts to share on gratitude, anyway….because gratitude is something we can practice all year long.
A few years ago, I was introduced to the concept of a gratitude journal. It’s a fairly simple concept, one that can easily be implemented into your daily life, regardless how busy you are: write down 3 things you’re thankful for each day. That’s it. They can be big things or small things. You don’t have to elaborate on them, or you can. It can literally be 3 words. Or maybe you want to just jot down 1 thing….or 5. We’re adults….we can do what we want here. 😉 it’s YOUR practice. And for something that you really don’t have to invest much time in, the results can be pretty fantastic. I’ve discovered, or maybe have just been reminded, that I lead a fairly charmed life. I invite you to try it out and see what happens.
Here are some of the things I’m grateful for, in no particular order….
- running water
- a supportive and loving spouse
- causes I feel passionate about
- the smell of spring
- the ebb and flow of life
- this next breath
- days with perfect temperatures
- my sister’s service to so many things: her home church, the broader church, her school kids, her family, those in need
- the ancient, rejuvenating, practice of yoga
- financial security
- the moments that humble me
- hellos…..and goodbyes
- bread
- sore muscles that remind me that I worked really hard on something
- communities of support you find in so many different places
- independence
- the sun when you need it, the shade when you need it, a lovely breeze, or the lack thereof
- modern medicine
- a really nice glass of red
- Dad being a ‘Worker Man’ and always willing to help
- a really good hug
- ancient wisdom
- the healing that comes with a good night’s sleep: mind, body, and soul
- warmth in the winter
- new eyes to appreciate naked trees in the winter
- visiting children who are out in the world, making their own way
- the freedom to control my own schedule
- the feet to carry me through the Narrows (and life), regardless of the pain they experience
- a peaceful home
- a good meal
- my clothes….that aren’t very trendy and don’t always fit me well
- a faith in and awe of something bigger than myself
- parents who may think I’m crazy at times but love and support me anyway
- the strength of body to build with the Habitat Women Build for 2 weeks straight ( and any other time I get out there)
- fun times with great friends
- the equalization of the breath
- the understanding that we all have our own gifts to contribute to the world….I don’t have to be good at everything and neither do you
- my niece’s faith and compassion for others
- the eyes to see past things that sometimes derail others
- considering what others are going through in any given moment, I rarely have anything to complain about
- campfires
- the way the body attempts to heal itself. without our knowledge or awareness and the way it does this until our last breath
- my tribe
- the rebirth of spring
- my mom’s desire to care for others
- relativity
- people who have taught me both how to act and how not to act
- my son’s wit
- the undying love of a dog
- adventures
- friends I’ve known since way back when I was in that awkward stage
- compost
- unconditional love
- touch love
- the comfort of my own bed
- dark chocolate
- my husband’s ability to figure the things out that frustrate me and cause me to give up
- memories
- my bike
- that I’m not afraid of dying
- the good, the bad, and the ugly of my past experiences – what I’m proud of and what I’m ashamed of….many lessons were learned and continue to be learned
- my daughter’s balance of fun loving and hard working
- new friends who you can just tell will be around for a long time
- softball….the game, the ability to play just for fun, and the many hours of fun and sometimes group therapy that happens in the parking lot after the game
- my kids’ friends
- the difference a new layer of paint can make
- proper gear/tools
I know. It’s a long list and you’re bored now. But I could seriously go on and on…..what are you thankful for? I invite you to open your eyes, drink in the abundance you will find all around you. In the words of Ferris Bueller: “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”
Much gratitude for you all,
Marci
