A Wide Arc of Gratitude

 Emotions don’t usually follow orders. I get the Sads every now and then. I can dwell in the absolutes of All This or All That, no in-between.

Gratitude is my ‘flotation device’. When the Sads visit and want to take over, I can choose to grab ahold of it to be hauled to emotional safety.

Today’s reading reminds me to remember the ones who have helped me learn and grow; those who guided me with love, as well as those whose lessons were harsh. So far, I’ve lived through them all. Gratitude for what is in this moment helps me stay grounded. Looking further afield, I can be truly grateful for the love and support of family and friends - they got me through false starts, helped me turn intention into action, loved me when I felt unworthy, tolerated me when I was being a twit, and gave me ‘atta girls’ when I needed them.

Today I woke up without a hangover. I’m grateful. Today I have a lovely apartment with a full fridge. I’m grateful. Today I can express my thoughts and share them. I’m grateful. I draw breath, my needs are met, I have the gift of life and the gift of fellowship, and yes, the gift of perspective, courtesy of the Sads.

I’m deeply grateful for all of it.

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