My gratitude project is going well. I’ve been having a tough time this fall. I’m grieving the death of my friend, going through some kind of rather intense spiritual transformation, and have managed to injure my lower back. Bleah. Yet every day, when I get ready to list the 3 things I’m thankful for that day, I always have plenty to say. There are always blessings, even in the midst of the most difficult days.

Which is, I guess, the point.

I’ve long been a fan of the power of positive thinking. I know that what you focus on is what grows in your life. I understand that things happen that are beyond our control, and yet that our attitude when facing challenges is what can either keep us stuck or move us forward.

And yet, as with most things, it’s the practice element that make it all come together.

So, between the back pain, the tears, the frustration of not being where my ego-mind thinks I should be, I pause. I notice the smiles, the moments of connection, and the flow of creativity.

I turn up the Christmas music, and work on the collage cards for my family. I enjoy the red berries my Mom brought me, admire the falling snow, or the moon, or the dogs as they play. I remember my friend’s smile and how she always told me she loved me. I listen as my daughter tells me about her own creative projects, talk with my son about his interests, take pictures of the cats being adorable, and focus on the things that are going well. When I can’t do anything else, I lie on the heating pad and take a nap, or watch Big Bang Theory, or read a book. Or just stop and reflect, enjoying the stillness of the wintry weather.

I remember that change is a constant, and that this too shall pass.

All is well.