#47 Discretionary Gratitude

We spoke last about gratitude, active gratitude, looking for opportunities to express gratitude, and turning inward to touch authentic moments of gratitude even amidst real pain. And just to be clear, these moments of gratitude are not silver linings of the pain. They’re separate, distinct feelings of gratitude for what is, for what we have, irrespective of the pain and loss we’re simultaneously feeling. This authentic gratitude doesn’t start with the phrase “at least” dot dot dot. It’s an entirely separate sentence. And I know it may sound like I’m really belaboring the point, but this is such a nuanced and important distinction. I’d like to talk about gratitude just a little bit more. Since posting the last episode I’ve found myself with a more heightened radar for opportunities to both express gratitude, and to take in expressions of gratitude with deeper impact – to really internalize the feedback.