I was not sure how to culminate this cycle. Then, it dawned on me. Why not show some examples of what all I express gratitude for? Before I proceed, though, please understand that I only offer the following as a guide. If it stirs up any jealousy or resentment within you, then I am sorry.
Why do you feel that way?
What can you be grateful for and work on to fix such a state?
It is not joy that makes us grateful;
-David Steindl-Rast
it is gratitude that makes us joyful.
I have varying degrees of gratitude for:
A higher power
This life
This breath
This moment
These words
This moment (alright, no more of these)
Parents
Partners over the years
Children
Departed grandparents
Ancestors
Friends
The sun
This planet
This solar system
This universe
Clouds
Water
Tea
Coffee
Kombucha
Plenty of other beverages
Apples
Bananas
Blueberries
Cheese
Dark chocolate
Guacamole
Hot sauces
Sushi
Many other foods
Sleep
Rest
Relaxation
Recovery
Rejuvenation
Healing
Books
Music
Movies
Video games
Cats
Dogs
Other pets and animals
Friendly smiles in passing
Courteous nods and gestures
Wholesome jokes
Heartfelt exchanges
Considerate check-ins
Exercise
Stretches
Massages
Self-improvement
Learning
Growth
Meditation
Mindfulness
Prayer
Art
Beauty
Consciousness
Desserts
Equanimity
Fragrances
Gratitude
Happiness
Individuation
Jesters
Knowledge
Love
Moons
Nostalgia
Oils
Peace
Questions
Relationships
Stoicism
Trust
Unity
Values/Virtues
Wisdom
X-rays
You
Zoos
Yes, I became playful with that exercise by the end, but I have gratitude for that playfulness as well. I watched this TED talk yesterday and thought it provided some worthwhile perspective to consider. It helps detail and highlight how much we often take for granted. Perhaps this viewpoint can help you grow your gratitude more gratefully. Approach it playfully.
It is one quick list of potential examples of what all one can be grateful for. I spent maybe a few minutes max on it. The beauty here is that I could be much more detailed and expansive with it, strengthening gratitude more. Perhaps you were excited for Frosted Flakes this morning. If Tony the Tiger were a philosopher, I would love to hear him talk about grrratitude. Platony? That would be grrreat. In cultivating effective gratitude, instead of being disappointed by the world’s imperfections, consciously give up false hopes. Relish life here and now, finding perspective for the grateful aspects in the lane.
realize how short the walk is from gratitude to happiness
-yung pueblo
Maybe it is wise. Maybe it is dumb. Time will tell.