Gratitude

A portrait image capturing a view of a forest path extending from the bottom to the top in the center of the image with a shadow silhouette of a person on the path. Pictured from the ankles up, the silhouette narrows as it rises; outline of head, right shoulder and torso are illuminated by the sun, and legs stand slightly apart in a solid posture. Green leaves and trunks frame the path in varying degrees of shadow and light.

At times gratitude feels elusive. Yet it stirs within again and again beckoning attention. It calls me back to the moment, to the blessings, and to an awareness of the present.

I inhale.

In this moment, I pause with appreciation for the path of paradox and mystery. I pause with appreciation for the tiniest of details like noticing that trees have leaves, whole faces can smile, and sound can be felt in the heart.

I exhale.

I am grateful for the path, for the light and the shadows, for the earth that holds me up and the wind that whispers my name. I am grateful for the unconditional witness of ocean waves and the setting sun. I am grateful for seemingly random dandelion seeds that wander their way through the world chasing their destinies.

I inhale.

I give thanks for breath itself. With closed eyes, infinite faces and moments wash over me and fill my heart.

I exhale.

I give thanks to the purring cat, the fresh strawberries, to that first sip of hot tea in the morning. I give thanks to the precious souls who have journeyed with me.

I inhale.

I give thanks to all those I am connected with now. I exhale and I give thanks for all those who journey together into the future.

Namaste.