A Full and Thankful Heart

 The more a person practices, the better they get at whatever the focus of that practice is. I was a champion blamer and victim, because I practiced every day. I have since learned that practicing gratitude in everything transcends the whiney “why me”s. I take time to notice the delights - the easy targets. I am then more able to get through the challenges as they arise; I am more liable to acknowledge them as lessons, as ‘life on life’s terms’, as we are reminded in 12 step groups.

I recently had physical issues which necessitated a trip to the ER (I’m just fine now, thanks). As I waited - and waited - in the freezing wait area, I was able to witness the kindness of the staff, from security guards to medical personnel, as they treated everyone with dignity and care. Some patients were verbally abusive, but they were quickly reminded that they were being helped in that moment, and to not speak that way. Simple boundary reminders in that moment of making connection. I felt gratitude for their professionalism and knowledge.

While waiting to be called in to a clinic early yesterday to have blood drawn, I paced the outside area. My practices of gratitude and mindfulness drew my eyes from the washed concrete up to the new pink blooms of a crape myrtle. I walked around it until I could see an upper branch which caught the morning sun, and observed how it vividly contrasted with the clear blue sky behind it. It was a moment of beauty. I watched a young mother fixing her child’s bicycle, and appreciated how she had taught her children to squat in a sitting position with only their feet touching the ground. Cultural differences, effective practices, and I got to take it all in.

I practice gratitude in all things. I don’t get it right - I’m not a Gratitude Master! But that practice bears the fruit of serenity. I’ll take that any day.