“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” – Robert Brault.
As we look back these last couple of years and ponder how things have changed because of the pandemic, we learn how fragile life is and how it can change instantly. As a country, one day out of the year is designated to gather with friends and family and express gratitude. However, why not be thankful each day?
Among other things, gratitude helps improve our mood, fosters hope for the future, reduces stress and burnout, increases resilience, and improves physical and mental health. It can also enhance the quality of sleep and relationships with others.
Expressing gratitude can be done through the actions we display with others and writing. Maintaining a gratitude journal is a great way to document 3-5 things you are grateful for and serves as a reminder when you are feeling down or unable to recognize the good in your life.
When expressing gratitude, remember yourself. We forget to thank ourselves for all we do and all we have experienced to get to where we are. Life is not perfect or easy, but we do our best with what we have and know.
Let’s take the time to enjoy and celebrate each moment. The past is no longer. The future is unknown. All we have is today, the present. Truly a gift.