Browsing Tag

gratitude

Books, Courage, Friendship, Gratitude, Growth, Laughter, Makeup, Rest, Stillness

What is saving your life right now?

Barbara Brown Taylor has made a practice of asking others and herself that question often*.

Salvation is a word for the divine spaciousness that comes to human beings in all the tight places where their lives are at risk, regardless of how they got there or whether they know God’s name. Few of us can choose our circumstances, but we can choose how we respond to them.  To be saved is not only to recognize the alternative to the deadliness pressing down on us but also be able to act on it.”

This morning when I awoke, I started a list. Shallow and thoughtful.  Spiritual and materialistic.  Here is what is saving my life right now. Continue Reading

Gifts, Gratitude, Prayer

Take Your Gratitude Medicine

At some point in this past year, I have forgotten how to breathe.

Odd, since I don’t remember learning the first time around. It just came natural.  I’m not completely gasping like a fish out of water, but hang out somewhere in between a flopping trout and yoga zen.

Some have called this anxiety.  Since I don’t have time for anxiety, it can’t be that. I have heard several times one cannot be anxious and overflowing with gratitude at the same time. I haven’t fully bought in to this, but I’m going to try it.  What I do know, from years of experience, is what consumes our mind controls our life.  I want to be consumed with gratitude and allow that to take control.

So.

I’ve put in a heavenly request to change my default setting.  It is now set to gratitude.  I’ve let God and His host of angels know, but also need the extra accountability for when anxiety sets in. In case I can’t reach it or forget where it is, please hit my reset button.

I’ve had several versions of a Gratitude Journal. I’ve written a list in the morning to start my day off on a thankful note.  I’ve jotted down some grateful musings in the evening before bed, and followed it up with a prayer that God would heal and restore my heart while I sleep. When I’m upset, angry, or worried about something, and I remember (or am humbled enough) to physically write down 5 things I am thankful for in that moment – it truly changes the posture of my heart. Continue Reading