Notes From The Unknown: Day 85

Whatever you do, do it with gratitude.

Please discuss. How does this play out in life?

I’ll start us out. In 2020, many of us have had our lives reduced and/or rearranged. Aspects like carefree socializing and stable finances have been pared away. Situations like racial injustice and political polarization have honed our awareness, leaving us in a freshly understood reality that can feel unfamiliar and uncomfortable. We do our best to navigate the now based on faith, hope, and past experience. But we are likely missing one key component.

Today’s message reminds me that thankfulness is the sweetener in life. In any give moment, something is going right. When I recognize the good right now—roof over my head = I’m lucky to have a house to clean, health = I have the physical strength and well being to address whatever challenges face me, ample food and drink = eating leftovers is a chance to repeat a dining experience I enjoy, supportive friends and family = I have a wealth of connections to listen to and assist in return—my gratitude helps ground me and feel less adrift. From the stable center being thankful provides, its easier to calmly address the things I feel I need to shift. When so many things are in my favor, it is natural to believe that positive change is possible in all areas of my life. I am grateful for all the good I receive!

How about you? What role does gratitude play in your life?

For a further exposition on this topic, see Chapter 10 “Why Gratitude Brings Us More” in my book “The Sharing: The Owner’s Manual for Being Human.”