I truly do not even have words to describe the impact the practice of gratitude has had on my life. But, I’m going to try.
And on a day dedicated to giving thanks–in the midst of what has been a truly crazy year–I believe recognizing the power of gratitude is more important than ever.
A few years back, I heard someone talking about a gratitude “practice”. I had never heard of gratitude as something to be practiced, but the way this person spoke about the power of gratitude in her life absolutely captivated me. Throughout so much brokenness & hurt & pain, her daily practice of waking up & simply writing out a few things she was grateful for completely transformed her outlook on life. So while this little daily gratitude list was seemingly small and mundane, it slowly but surely completely rewired her brain to look for the good.
I began my gratitude practice right then and there. Have I been perfect at doing my grateful list every single day? Absolutely not… but! I try my hardest to do this daily, even if its just on my iPhone notes. And you guys, I can tell you firsthand that this practice has completely changed the way I approach life.
I feel SO content. I notice the good in others & situations more quickly. On my hardest days, I feel peace, just knowing that these days, too, will grow me & shape me & make me stronger. I see so much beauty in some of the most broken places. I find myself thinking less about things that don’t truly matter. And its my gratitude practice that has enabled me to find meaning & purpose throughout the hard seasons of my life.
I want to be clear, though: gratitude does not mean you will never face disappointment or sadness or hurt or that the pain in your life is not to be acknowledged or felt. If you are hurting today, I want you to know I see you. I am so sorry you are in pain. If you need a friend or someone to just talk to, I’m here (truly, reach out to me!). What gratitude does mean is that in the midst of tremendous pain or hurt or challenges, there is still good to be found. And so, even on the hardest of days, you can find hope & joy, for you see the beauty amidst the ashes.
Life is too short to not be grateful. YOU are worthy of living a grateful life. A simple little gratitude list every day may just change your life… I know it did for mine. <3
Let’s be grateful. Today & everyday.
Now, onto eating lotsa turkey (or in my case, a cute charcuterie board)… xx
Always,
Elle
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. Psalm 136:1