Gratitude for Grace (Week 3)
There's nothing wrong with us needing or having to begin again.
I almost lost sight of gratitude this week. I was so busy that I forgot to do my writing practice. When I remembered, I found myself getting frustrated. But instead of beating myself up for the days that had already passed, I decided to give myself grace and make up the days. That turned out to be a wonderful reflection practice. I gave myself permission to slow down and think about the moments of gratitude that greeted me during the week. I caught myself smiling and feeling really happy after I finished reflecting. I had a fantastic week, despite a few hiccups. Recalling those moments allowed me to relish being alive and well in my mind and body.
The Lesson: It's easy for us to let negative self-talk throw us off track. We extend gratefulness and compassion to ourselves by allowing ourselves to be flawed and human. When we forget something or drop the ball in our routine, being mean to ourselves does not help us. Allow your shortcomings and mistakes to teach you the beauty of getting back up again. There's nothing wrong with us needing or having to begin again. Onward, friends. Onward.
Week 3
May 11: I am grateful for the like-minded folks that I do business with. It's incredible how aligned I feel with and in work right now.
May 12: I'm grateful that Natalie and Racheal got to DC safely.
May 13: I'm grateful for a WONDERFUL show at the Kennedy Center. WOW, I wish I could have live shows like that more often. What a treat!
May 14: I'm grateful for African food, family coming over, doing nothing, and evening breezes through the cracked windows of our house.
May 15: I'm grateful for my mom and Pop being married for 23 years. Such a blessing! I'm grateful for friends and my daughters and a good brunch.
May 16: I'm grateful that I learned enough patience to go with the flow. I missed my connection flight to Phoenix. I'm headed out there to teach. My first instinct was to be upset and frustrated, but I redirected. Instead, I took a few deep breaths and let it go. I made it to the first stop safely, and I am grateful. I refuse to allow things out of my control to get me worked up.
May 17: I'm grateful for rising at 5 AM to see the moon outside my window. Wow! What a sight to see. What a time to be alive. I am here. I am well. I am safe.
May 18: I am grateful for getting up and going to the gym while away on travel. Working out is not my favorite thing, but I did it. My walk was lovely this morning, too. A bunny crossed right in front of my path. I wonder if that means anything significant. Nature makes me smile.
Community Question: What has gratitude taught you about giving yourself grace this week?
Thank you so much for reading Gratitude Weekly. Please subscribe here and share it with a friend if you like this newsletter.
Be sure to follow me on Instagram (@alex) and TikTok (@easewithalex) for daily doses of affirmations and gentle reminders.