Gratitude
Journaling
Audrey Costa
I
n the spirit of November and Thanksgiving, I decided
to join my free-spirited, always jovial hippy friends
and start a gratitude journal. I’ve been getting down
on myself for just about everything – my prescribed
medication wasn’t cutting it, I was losing sight of my
overall purpose in life, and I was seriously bummed out.
I needed a new tactic that would enable me to see how
good I truly have it. I knew it in my heart, but the way
I was viewing my daily life was off. I wanted to rid the
negativity speed skating around my brain. What better
way than feeling deeply grateful for what the universe had
bestowed upon me? I decided to stick to the overlooked,
little things that I take for granted every day when jotting
things down, rather than the obvious “a roof over my
head, food on the table, good health, love of family and
friends,” etc., though I will always be internally grateful
for all those blessed things.
having a rough day. Over the course of just one week of
journaling, I started to easily see everyday things to be
grateful for, and I’m so glad I did. It helped me realize
what could make me happier about myself, instead of
dwelling on the small negative thoughts that can creep
in and take over.
Here are just a few simple things I would usually never
notice in the moment, but which I’m incredibly grateful
for:
1. The warmth of the first sip of red wine after a long,
laborious day.
2. My 6 year old still thinks I’m cool (I’m not. Don’t
tell her.), and I’m still “Momma” and not just “Mom.”
3. Getting amped up about watching The Macy’s
The first few days were a bit awkward for someone Thanksgiving Day Parade while the heavenly smell of
with a pessimistic disposition. I supposed initially that turkey permeates our home. I cannot wait!
jotting down what I felt gratitude for – the smell of my
husband’s cologne when he walks by that’s so intoxicating, 4. Drying my face with a warm towel, fresh from the
or my protein shake that tastes like real chocolate and dryer.
not asbestos – seemed corny, but it wasn’t at all! It was
refreshing to acknowledge the little things that reinforce 5. The 50% - 70% off Target haul I got in preparation
how fortunate and blessed my life is, and I have to say for the holidays and upcoming birthday parties. Got
that it put a smile on my face a few times when I was to save that money, honey!
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WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE
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NOVEMBER 2018