Lessons in Gratitude Day 70

The days continue to fly by. Today is day 70 for this experiment in gratitude. Wasn’t I just celebrating day 60? Where is the time going?

Today was kind of a low-key day. Wednesday is the day I volunteer at the food pantry, so I only had a few hours in the morning to do some reading, computer work, etc. I was supposed to have a conference call this morning at 9, but when I called in the person I needed to speak to was unavailable and ultimately we were unable to connect. It was one of those hurry up and wait kind of experiences that happened throughout the day today. I had made contact with a number of people who hadn’t gotten back to me. You sort of sit there in a holding pattern because until they respond questions go unanswered, decisions are left unmade, and actions are left untaken. It’s been a little frustrating. I am grateful this evening, though, as I often am. Quietly so tonight. As I’ve noted before, every step I take, no matter how small is still movement forward, each action is so much better than inaction. I try not to judge myself for those times when I don’t seem to get much done. I have them periodically, but am learning to be patient and gentle with myself.

Once again, I offer gratitude for simple things. This evening, as I was about to fix dinner, I saw movement outside the front of my house. A deer was trotting up the side of the parking lot. She stopped and turned back as if looking for something. I of course captured a couple of not-very-good photos of her on my phone and went outside to watch for a few moments before she continued on her way. I’m not sure what it is about such encounters that fascinates some of us (I noticed a neighbor also watching the doe with rapt attention), but it gets me every time. Her warm brown eyes, her fluid movement, her calm demeanor (even in the presence of a photo taking human) was lovely to behold. A simple thing, but I loved it.

My Evening Visitor

When I think on it, it doesn’t take much to bring me into a sense of wonder and appreciation for life around me. Even at those times when I’m not in the best mood, my spirits can be instantly lifted by such an unexpected gift as my four-legged visitor or the beauty I experience during my walks by the Bay. I wouldn’t want to be any other way.

I am appreciative too that no matter how the day might have been, I generally manage to end it well. That’s because most evenings I am writing this blog thinking about the things in my life for which I am thankful. Day 70 didn’t come in with a lot of fanfare, but here we are. Ready to go another 10? I think so. Let’s rock and roll!