Gratitude

I've had A Holy Experience delivered to my inbox for quite some time now. Something about Ann's writing redirects my often muddled perspective back to the sacred ordinary. And every post is poetry, pure and simple. She has a gift. I'm so thankful she shares it with the rest of us.

Each Monday she makes a gratitude list. Today, on a random Monday, I have decided to join in. I've always been prone to dwell on the have not rather than the have. Practicing gratitude doesn't come naturally...but when it does come, perspective shifts. I am kinder, more content, more apt to see the beauty in the everyday and the blessings just waiting to be gathered up.

So here it goes...

1. breezy, low-humidity July day, a welcome respite for us southern folk

2. neighbors

3. room enough for us all in our cozy home

4. sweet tea in the afternoon

5. hot pink, which {hopefully temporarily} boldly streaks my daughter's hair today

6. a sweaty morning run with my friend and running partner, followed by Starbucks

7. The Prodigal God by Tim Keller. The message will change you.

8. My husband's precious grandfather who went to be with Jesus Friday night. We'll never know how many prayers he offered up on our behalf.

9. a husband who continues to love me even though I am prone to muttering and moodiness

10. the backyard "golf course" where I'm watching the boy play as I type these words

11. my camera and lens and the generous one who gifted both

12. local peaches and blueberries

13. the Cross

Ann said it perfectly today:

If you've made it to the Cross -- then no matter what's up ahead, the hardest part of life, it's falling there back behind you... Whatever today holds --- Jesus came. We're living in the reign of Grace!

I can just see you now.

Taking a deep breath... and smiling the whole long day.

What are you grateful for? Go on, make a list in your head or jot it on a post-it for your fridge. A smile is sure to follow.