On Gratitude

Researchers report that gratitude is good for body, mind and soul.

I am reminded of this fact every morning when I step into the shower and instinctively say a short, silent prayer of thanksgiving for indoor plumbing and hot water.  Is there anything more therapeutic than a hot shower?  It soothes the aching body, washes away grime, (and tears), and provides background music for our inner rock stars.  I am grateful to live in a place where water is plentiful.

As my fingers fly over the keyboard, I think back to high school typing class.  It was optional for college-bound students.  With all of my years of education since high school, no class has been more valuable.  Who could have known?  Thank you, Sr. Regina, for the hundreds of practice drills and timed-writings.

I’ve often said that life has enough pressure; I don’t need my clothes squeezing me, too.  Does anyone?  Nothing feels better than coming home from work and leaving the shoes at the door.  Oh, the delicious feeling of bare feet on the floor!  And slipping into a soft, over-sized t-shirt, or some worn sweat pants?  I am certain that’s the uniform they wear in heaven.  I am thankful for the way time wears some things out for the better.

I love the feeling of soothing warmth, be that from a soft blanket, a cozy fire in the fireplace, or the company of people I love.  I am grateful every time I come in from the cold.

I am thankful to have grown-up in a time when most of what ailed me could be cured by a tincture of time, soft kisses and cinnamon toast.  How lucky was I?

I could go on; my well of gratitude is deep.

What’s in your well?

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