I have been really struggling over the last several weeks thinking about what to write for this Recalibration. There are so many things going on in the world that can easily overwhelm us. There’s renewed bombing of Kyiv, unrest in the Middle East with threats of an on-going war, unprecedented earthquakes in Venezuela, floods and tornados across our country, thousands of people with inadequate food and housing and medical care, an Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and yes, the celebration of America’s 250th birthday at a time when the government seems more dysfunctional than ever before. That’s a lot! And then there are our personal lives and the challenges we face on a day-to-day basis.
In the midst of all that is going on, what might help us to not fall prey to the feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, and can help change the world? Gratitude! Brother David Steindl-Rast, Benedictine monk and co-founder of A Network for Grateful Living, defines grateful living as follows:
Grateful living is a way of life which asks us to notice all that is already present and abundant – from the tiniest things of beauty to the grandest of our blessings – and in so doing, to take nothing for granted. We can learn to focus our attention on, and acknowledge, that life is a gift. Even in the most challenging times, living gratefully makes us aware of, and available to, the opportunities that are always available; opportunities to learn and grow, and to extend ourselves with care and compassion to others. Grateful living is based in, and reinforces, values such as respect, responsibility, and generosity. Small, grateful acts every day can uplift us, make a difference for others, and help change the world. [emphasis mine]
Grateful.org
Gratitude research shows that if we are grateful we tend to be happier, more content, less stressed and anxious, more resilient, less depressed, more productive, and have better relationships. Gratitude can change how we face challenges, big and small.
As I’m sitting here reflecting on gratitude, I find that I am thankful for numerous things including the beautiful sky last night, my backyard birds, air-conditioning during these blistering hot days, a safe and comfortable place to lay my head, good healthcare, wonderful family and friends and faith community, and a loving and gracious God who accepts me and cherishes me and calls me Beloved. What are you thankful for? How might living gratefully change your presence in the world? The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Thessalonians 5, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” May it be so.
Christine McHenry, MD, MATS, DHL. Board member, The Fellowship of United Methodist Spiritual Directors and Retreat Leaders.
This reflection represents the view of the author.