Being Grateful

September 21 was World Gratitude Day, but we certainly can and should be grateful every day. I believe gratitude is one of the most powerful spiritual practices we can do.

World Gratitude Day is a day that offers a global reminder to slow down and acknowledge the people who make our lives — and our work — better.

This is a good time to pause and put on my gratitude glasses. Actually, writing out a list, articulating my gratitude sharpens my vision to see even more moments of grace. I have been practicing paying attention to the beauty, the details, the intricacies of each ordinary day and discovered so much to be thankful for. 

• The sun shining through the stained-glass windows at church.
• The excited yet tender hugs from grandkids.
• Look to the roof over your head. Having a home to live in, no matter how large or small is something to be thankful for.
• In 2026 more friends and family than I care to fully admit have died. I am grateful for their lives and grateful for health. Life is precious. And I am thankful for the support of friends through challenging times.
• Being grateful for life’s difficulties is difficult.  LOL. These times of pruning just plain hurt and can be dark but also provide the opportunity for insight and growth.
• Thank you, Lord, for ordinary, normal days!
• That first sip of delicious coffee in the morning. 
• And speaking of coffee, I often leave my piping hot coffee sitting on the kitchen counter and here comes my hubby bringing me my morning beverage before it gets cold.  Yes, very thankful for all those tender moments!
• Last year I had cataracts removed and this year was my hubby’s turn. The gift of sight is so precious. Thank you, Lord.
• Sometimes it is hard to be grateful as we age, but I do find as I have more life to reflect upon, this gives me hope and guidance for whatever next steps come. I have seen God’s hand and grace so much in my life, reminding me God is always with me.
• This one is hard to write out but I am grateful for restless nights and having to use the bathroom so much. (not sure how much I fully can say thanks for this one but will try). Most nights I peek outside and if the sky is clear, spend a few moments gazing at God’s amazing universe.  The stars are brilliant. Nighttime worship for sure.
• And I am thankful for friends like you who come into my life via this blog. You are a gift to me!

Take a moment to make a gratitude list. Right now. What are you thankful for?