“Many people lose the small joys in the hope for the big happiness.” ~ Pearl S. Buck
Leaves glowing in the sun, zealous hum of bumblebees,
From afar, from somewhere beyond the river, echoes of lingering voices
And the unhurried sounds of a hammer gave joy not only to me.
Before the five senses were opened, and earlier than any beginning
They waited, ready, for all those who would call themselves mortals,
So that they might praise, as I do, life, that is, happiness.
I meet lots of folks who exist day to day. I used the word “exist” and not the word “live” because that’s what they’re doing. Their lives evolve into a monotonous routine. Those who live experience the moment and what the moment brings whether it’s joyful, sorrowful, or an opportunity to express heart-filled gratitude. Fully experiencing the moment helps them to more fully grasp what it means to be human. They will dance at wedding, cry at funerals, and creatively explore how to build and heal relationships. It’s never too late to start living.
Out of the silence
I come to you,
Bringing a love
Free as the dew.
I come and sing
A heart’s great love,
And passion of soul
Pure as a dove.
But this I crave
As you pass by–
A smile on your lips,
A light in your eye.
Practice gratitude: Take time each day to appreciate the good things in your life.
Practicing gratitude is an act of humility. It is acknowledging thanksgiving for a gift. When one considers it, everything is a gift. We’re not entitled to any of it. It’s there for us to enjoy. Consider the miracle of our bodies. Scientists speculate that there are billions of actions occurring within our bodies at any given moment. Imagine that these happen continuously and harmoniously.. You and I are breathing, walking miracles. Gratitude is the foundational rock of happiness. If we choose to be grateful, we will be happy. They go together. Each night after dinner I go for a walk. I name all the people and events for which I am grateful for during my day. I literally walk with a smile. People must think I’m nuts. No, I jam ust grateful.
A few things to never take for granted: One’s life. A partner’s love. Good health. A faithful friend. Any meal. A bird’s song. Springtime. And, a hot cup of coffee. Everything is a gift.
How is your day going? I’m off to a great start. I am writing this post before I head to the gym. It’s early morning. I’ve done my stretching, child pose and sleeping baby. I did the plank, full bridges and one legged bridges. I showered and dressed for the gym. I made coffee, ate oatmeal and a side dish of blueberries, I made oatmeal yesterday and put it in two bowls in the fridge (I really like cold oatmeal with cinnamon and drizzled honey). Now I working on my blog. I am grateful for a good night’s sleep, a hot shower, being able to exercise (I find great joy in exercising), my hot coffee and oatmeal. I’m grateful for this blog and for those who read it. When I take the time to be grateful, I feel a peaceful easy feeling covering me. It’s a good space to be in. I agree with William Arthur Ward who wrote, “Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.
In this episode, we explore the power of gratitude, especially during difficult times like grief and loss. We’ll discuss practical tips for cultivating gratitude and share a poignant poem by William H. Merwin.
Happy Thanksgiving – Grateful for all my followers. Thank you for the wonderful gift of you.
Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. ~ Melody Beattie
