“Can you see the holiness in those things you take for granted — a paved road or a washing machine? If you concentrate on finding what is good in every situation, you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul.” ~~ Rabbi Harold Kushner
I’m grateful for patterns in numbers today. Patterns remind me that there is a master designer in our universe … and that we are not just accidental by-products of cataclysmic events. I like seeing the date, 1.1.11; it speaks to me of beginnings … first day, new year, fresh start.
As I sip my coffee this morning, I’m grateful for this heavy mug. Its design is simple and substantial. It isn’t dainty – it is hefty with a comforting weight. The cup is cream colored with a simple brown band around the bottom. It is labeled with “Fox & Obel.” Fox & Obel is a gourmet market in Chicago (http://www.fox-obel.com/). I’m reminded of the trip I took with a colleague from work … a friend … and our adventures while attending the conference in Chicago. The conference itself was excellent. And the explorations around the city were enlightening as we walked, talked, visited sites not common to where we live. We enjoyed exploring the market – gathered our dinner there on more than one occasion – feasted on the sights and smells in the deli – captured our memory in the purchase of the mug. I’m grateful this morning for my work, my colleague and her friendship, for our opportunities to learn.
Henry Ward Beecher encourages me from his words, “Every man should be born again on the first day of January. Start with a fresh page.” Today I start with a fresh page in journaling my gratitude for the many blessings – large and small – that surround me.
