Tag: Thoughts

I’m rarely reflective. In fact, sometimes I’m oblivious to truth in my life.

I tend to focus on perfecting the blemishes and purging the weaknesses; stashing the trash and masking the clutter. The natural result? Self-obsession and disconnection from reality.

If I’m not conscientious and intentional about regaining perspective, my problems quickly grow out of proportion and my heart becomes anxious and bitter.

I’ve been pushing myself to take stock of my reality. To be honest with myself – to examine my day-to-day beliefs and consider their validity. The result has been a feeling of overwhelming gratitude.

I’m grateful for friends who hold me accountable to dreams that I’m afraid to vocalize.

I’m grateful to live in a city full of opportunity.

I’m grateful for thunderstorms that I can watch through large windows – from the comfort of a couch and warmth of a tea cup.

I’m grateful for parents who are proud of me when I don’t know why.

I’m grateful for the hope of tomorrow even without a promise of today.

I’m grateful for the days when I wake up without pain.

I’m grateful for sisters who love me [and tell their friends that I’m cool].

I’m grateful for education and empathy and their limitless potential.

I’m grateful for friendships that never change, despite distance and life stage.

I’m grateful to jump in my car and shortly end up lost in the Shenandoah.

I’m grateful for opportunities to see the world and capture memories with people dear to my heart.

I’m grateful for fresh flowers on my table and Otis Redding on the record player.

I’m grateful that I am never alone despite day-to-day ups and downs.

I’m grateful to have known and loved my grandparents – to know they are part of who I am.

I’m grateful for antique furniture and family heirlooms that make my home feel like home.

I’m grateful for a faith that has evolved while continuing to be my compass.

I’m grateful to my God who knows me fully even when I don’t know myself.

I’m grateful for Audrey Assad and for Rachel Held Evens.

I’m grateful for hope in a world where words lack assurance and trust may be broken.

I’m grateful for resurrection and the hope for life eternal.

For these truths and so much more, I am grateful. This reality is the one I want to claim despite day-to-day fears and failures. A heart of gratitude.