A message from Sandy. Gratitude holds us together even when we are falling apart. Sometimes gratitude’s most powerful mysteries are revealed when we are struggling. While we are stumbling around in the darkness, perhaps angry, we may have abandoned all hope, maybe even crying ourselves to sleep—-gratitude waits patiently to console and reassure us that there is a bigger picture we may not be able to see at the moment.

It’s easy to be grateful when things are going great, but when things are not so great, “thank you” usually isn’t the first phrase that comes to mind. We don’t feel grateful when our hearts are broken or our dreams are dashed.  How difficult is it to stop focusing on what is lacking in our lives and pay attention to all that we have? Small acts of kindness can help to heal even the deepest wounds or savoring those special moments of comfort that help us to restore our serenity. All we truly need is awareness of what we have. Here are some overlooked blessings to get us started:

• The dream that will not die because you were born to bring it to fruition
• The kindness of strangers
• The warmth and security of home. Crossing the threshold and closing the door after a hard day
• Expressions of unconditional love and support
• The aroma of something delicious wafting from the kitchen
• Not having to cook tonight
• When hope is restored
• Following your intuition and being delighted that you did
• Daydreams
• Acceptance after a struggle
• An afternoon to do as you please
• Holding your child in your arms
• Trying something new and loving it
• The desire for knowledge
• Two hours in a bookstore
• Watching a sunset
• Meeting a kindred spirit
• Hearing a piece of music that touches your soul
• A nap
• The release a good cry brings
• The loyal, loving companionship of our pets
• Summoning up the courage to face a challenge
• Taking a big risk and having it pay off
• Moving on
• Letting go gracefully and without regrets

Faith in the ultimate goodness of life, faith in yourself, and faith that as you seek you will find. There are so many more things to be grateful for, what are some of your favorites?