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Gratefulness
Daily Journey by Grace to grow in Gratitude & pass it on
I have no need for anyone to follow me. I can role model the interior Principles others have passed on to me which leads to a good path to walk. May others be led to find their Way of seeking & following the Divine, however they conceive that Universal Truth to be.
During my morning walks, I foster walking with intention, keeping my eyes wide open. for nature’s beauty. I saw a lot more opening crocus this spring and now I look upward watching the fiery sugar maple leaves dance.
Letting go of “old ideas” is a start; moving towards & living with acceptance is the goal-casting aside expectations. Trusting that everything & everyone is right where we’re supposed to be brings the Grace of Serenity.
When I really take in the wonderment of my body, I am amazed at how the Creator wove it all together. I now have three metallic implants: broken L wrist years ago & 2 artificial knees from past 2 years. I’m awaiting a new crown in my lower jaw. I could dwell in negativity & catastrophe thinking I’m wearing out-Instead I’m grateful for medical innovations! “More will be revealed” & I’m still kicking. Good morning New Day!!
I’ve been in communal projects where I’ve unconsciously become a judge & jury & sometimes executioner by negative thinking & judgmental words. It quickly eroded any feeling of joy from being involved with the group. Entering projects w/out expectations is the direction I need to take. We’re all doing the best we can.
What gives me a lift & can almost make me giddy, is the joy of seeing the bright fiery glow of sugar maple trees this fall. I’m focusing on beauty in this moment, not projecting into the upcoming barrenness of stark naked trees.
I’d like to cultivate a short nap now & then. I currently don’t nap at all & I know at times I need one. Any napping would be a start. (It wasn’t safe to nap as a child). Also disciplinIng some time, to curl up with a book to read.
My hair was thick & full in younger years. Now, it’s thinning quite a bit, revealing my head & scalp more. Perhaps the tip of my head needs more affirmation(?) Growing in acceptance of it would be a start.
If I return to the listening instructions I was taught in improvisation classes, I’m able to set aside my mental chatter & listen solely to the clues & cues the others are providing for me to respond to. By adding listening with an open heart I’m led to hear what emotions are being said, fears, joys, sadness. This info helps me respond with more kindness. I too have decreased listening to the political jargon. That has been freeing.
Anytime I’m out in nature-smelling fresh mowed spring lawn; seeing glorious fall colors in deciduous trees; watching snow fall; hearing patter of rain. Phone calls w special friends & family. Seeing neighbor’s two youngsters playing outside & hearing their giggles & tears. Engaging all my senses feeds my soul & I’m grateful for each of them.
I don’t think I’ve ever thanked Margaret Mary for her support, love & tolerance of me when I lived in community with her. That was decades ago. She’s a gem! I’m grateful she’s alive so I can send a note.
The opportunity to pause & enjoy the quiet of a new morning just begun.
As I reflect on the life of public service by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, I see how the actions of one woman, small in stature, rippled to thousands+ women, children & men. It’s ok I will never have “that” effect. My role in this cosmic dance is different. I AM creating change, beginning with smiling eyes under a mask & all other actions I take.
I received abundant compassion, unconditional love & mercy during an amend conversation with an older friend. The depth of that experience with her has never left me.
I show I care in a myriad of ways-random acts of kindness; smiling with expressive eyebrows with my mask on; unexpected texts including birthday balloons; traditional cards; phone calls; respecting Nature; trying to travel gently on this planet we all share.
Stories that move me generally include experiences of a story teller coming to a personal surrender; then a coming to believe in a Creative Source that assists them walking forward; in turn propelling them to selflessly pass this Gift of new life on to others. Others who identify with their own brokenness share in the commonalities.
There are some note cards that need to be sent, preferably today, to Elders living out state from me. During this time of being unable to physically see those I cherish deeply, I want to send more texts, calls or a card. I know it is nice to be remembered.
I’m enjoying & finding more peace in the morning hours 630-730 CT. Birdsong symphonies are a treat, now complimented with crickets harmony. I used to find solace in 10-1130 pm as well. Since 5/25 in Minneapolis; George Floyd’s egregious death, random gun fire permeates the former stillness.
Michele, Thank you for running, for giving voice to those who can no longer be heard as they cry out their pain.
Hi Michele, I made no reference to BLM, and I understand your point. Thanks for comment.
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We are delighted to announce the release of Kristi Nelson’s book Wake Up Grateful