Practicing Gratitude

The practice of gratitude is a core part of my own faith—and many other faith traditions as well. Beyond its spiritual roots, gratitude is also known to bring real health benefits, from lowering stress to lifting overall well-being. I know that our official gratitude holiday is coming, but I don’t think we can be too thankful.

As I reflect on my life right now, I feel grateful for so much.

“Trees Along the River” Silver gelatin photos, acrylic, color pencil, ephemera & dried pressed leaves on canvas (10×30×1.5”)

I’m grateful for my loving life partner. He supports me in countless ways. Like any relationship, we both have our faults, but we show patience with one another and create a life built on love and tolerance.

I’m grateful for my family and friends, some I’ve known for decades, others I’ve only just met. Each one brings camaraderie, acceptance, and support. And thanks to technology, I can stay in touch with most of them at a moment’s notice.

I’m grateful for the companionship of my quirky little dog, who makes me laugh, keeps me company, and reminds me to pay attention to the subtle ways animals communicate with us.

I’m grateful to live in a place of mild weather and natural beauty. Just minutes from my home, I can immerse myself in nature, breathing in the quiet, even while suburbia hums not far away. Sitting on a park bench, watching sunlight filter through trees, or feeling a breeze on my face—all of it reminds me how much beauty there is in the simplest things.

I’m grateful for all life around me: plants, insects, animals. Documenting and sharing these glimpses of wonder feels like a small way of honoring their presence.

I’m grateful for the chance to share my passion with others, teaching creative skills, helping people see the world with fresh eyes, and, I hope, bringing a measure of hope and healing through art.

And I’m grateful for the past weekend—for friends who came by, new friends made, laughter shared, artwork purchased, and the deep sense of community that filled the air.

Gratitude, after all, is not just about noticing what’s good in life, it’s about sharing that goodness so it multiplies.

And now in the spirit of sharing, I’m inviting you to pause and reflect: What are you grateful for today?

I would love to know if you’re willing to share.