On Gratitude

gabrielle cole

I am well aware that gratitude practices are actually a pretty significant key in leading a happier life, and I am a person who does, semi-regularly, think of gratitude. I think it helps me to cope with some of the things that happen in the world that are challenging- not by avoiding them but making sure that my thoughts have some balance, avoiding getting swallowed by awfulness. However, I am not always excellent at expressing that gratitude publicly – I’m more of an internal processor. Still, it helps to make it public, write it down and such.

I am grateful for my family, for being with them, and for their health.

I am grateful for a family that’s willing to engage in dialogue about challenging topics.

I am grateful for my health.

I am grateful for my friends.

I am grateful for friends who make time to see me when I come to town.

I am grateful for my friends who have maintained friendships for years upon years.

I am grateful for my stability.

I am grateful for my independence.

I am grateful for having somewhere to stay that is safe, warm, and dry.

I am grateful for my access to healthcare.

I am grateful for my reliable transportation.

I am grateful for a job that is meaningful.

I am grateful for my access to free graduate education.

I am grateful to every person who supported me and helped me along the way, even though they didn’t have to.

I am grateful to have a week off of school to rest and recharge.