Your Thank You List

Sharing gratitude with life itself

A giant loaf of rosemary garlic whole wheat sourdough bread in the early evening sunshine. -Photo by Trista Signe Ainsworth.

“Even though tomorrow will be dark for me, I thank you for trying to bring me to the light.”
― K. Weikel

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Each night before going to sleep, I pray for all those near and far who are dear to my heart. Every word uttered brings me closer to them. This silent connection allows my being to be grateful for everything.

One evening, I found myself whispering a long thank-you list to life.

I felt deeply alive as I went through everything joyful on that day. I was as thankful for papers to file as I was for the blooming flowers, my family, friends, and water to drink.

Gorgeous pink lupines blooming in the garden this spring. -Photo by Trista Signe Ainsworth.

In that moment, I felt a deep calling to be grateful.

Some days, we may be quick to recite our list with joy. Yet, other times, we can feel stuck in the dark chaos encircling us or those we love. In these moments, we can embrace ourselves with love and know our gratitude will break through the night and see the light of day.

Being thankful when we are able brings joy and miracles not only to ourselves but to those…