I believe values show themselves in on one’s actions. As I look at my day, my week, my month, etc. — I see small portions of time where I am living my values and large portions where I am not. I say I value community, but I spend a lot of time alone. I say I value you creativity and ideas, but I watch too much garbage TV. I say I value nature, but am not spending quality, daily time outdoors. I say I value spirituality, but do not allow room for my spirit to explore and soar. My hope is to reflect and better understand why my actions and choices contradict my values.

For me, the quiet reflection of gratefulness is humbling. Many times, those reflections are so personal. This morning, I woke to sunshine and a temperature of 70 degrees. The sun was rising from the east and warming a spot in my backyard. The air was fresh and I welcomed the sun on my skin. I laid in the sun before readying myself for work. My dogs meandered around me, occasionally checking in for a pet, a hello, a sniff, a touch. In the moment, I felt so grateful for the peacefulness and warmth around me. Grateful for that space and that time.