Thankful for Life’s Remarkable Moments

My husband and I just returned from a couple of days in Florida where we reunited with our good friends from Ireland.  This is an annual trek we began several years ago.  It dawned upon me, during that time together, how I sometimes take the simple (yet remarkable) moments for granted.

As we enter the Thanksgiving and holiday season, I’m going to be more mindful of celebrating those moments and remind myself of what a blessed life I live.

For example, when’s the last time you watched the sunset and marveled at the beauty of those couple of minutes of glory that occur every day?  Maybe you are more of a sunrise person which is equally as beautiful.  I love any type of water.  Park me by a lake, river or pond and I can really get in my happy zone.  Put me by an ocean and I am in heaven.  Just being.

Do you take time to savor a great cup of coffee or tea while catching up with a dear friend?  When’s the last time you reached out to a relative to check in and see how they are doing?  Those couple of minutes can make their day and make yours brighter too.

I had a few belly laughs during our trip.  With all the stress in our lives (professionally and personally), I think we tend to underestimate the healing power of laughter.  So, I’m going to be more intentional about finding the humor in life and be thankful for it.

Our grandchildren are the apples of our eyes.  We recently had a conversation with two of them who are finding success in their new schools and their sporting activities.  Listening to the teens gaining their confidence (and wanting to share with us older folks) were some special moments to cherish.  We are expecting a new grandson to be born any day now; so, we have no grandiose Thanksgiving plans.  As we prayerfully await his birth, a little calmness and time for inner reflection will be welcomed.  

My goal is to soak in all the remarkable moments happening around me and remain mindful to consistently give thanks. Regardless of how you are spending your Thanksgiving holiday, I hope you can have time to do the same.