The sound of rain on the roof
My snuggly little dog
Coffee--especially when delivered to me in bed by my sweet, sweet husband
Around seven years ago, I began a gratitude practice. Every day I list three things I am thankful for, writing them in a journal, slowly, using a fountain pen so that I have time to really enjoy the warmth of gratitude. Sometimes the joys are small: a good book, a nice talk with a neighbor, or a new bud on my amaryllis. Other times I'm grateful for big ticket items like a new writing contract, improved health, or a friend's recovery from surgery. And I have to tell you, this practice feels great. It centers me. It changes my outlook. It keeps my face turned toward the light.
I highly recommend a gratitude practice, especially in these challenging times. You can take a page out of my book and keep a gratitude journal, explore this online Gratitool (isn't that a great name?) created by my friend Bruce Cantwell, or explore other practices at gratefulness.org.
Gratitude turns what we have into enough.
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