July 30

You and I are here on this quest for more joy, but we also know that life can throw us some crap and there’s nothing like a big dose of life sludge to drag you down. I’m dealing with some of that right now and maybe you are, too. And if it’s really deep and really heavy, maybe you’re thinking you’ll just skip doing this today. And tomorrow.  

I get it. But whatever you do, don’t. Don’t stop this gratitude work. Heavy, sludgy times are when we most need to wear our gratitude bumpers. (If you’re not sure what those are, click here for the Day 1 explanation that helps me deal with times like this.) Don't worry if you can't get fully into it, but at least notice and acknowledge good things as you go through the day. By the way, the more you practice gratitude, the more it will help you deal with life's downturns.  

Squeeze in quiet time; it makes the exercise more intentional. Close your eyes. Take some deep, belly breaths. Notice where there is tension in your body and relax those places. Fight off thoughts of the life sludge and stay intently focussed on what you are thankful for. Lovingly lift your thanksgiving list up to God, or the universe, or whatever you see as bigger than you. Stay with it a while. There’s no rush. Know that this will improve your outlook as you navigate the tough stuff because gratitude makes you stop and notice the good stuff. 

So, what are you grateful for today? It’s Day 3 of The Big Joy in Little Things and these are some of the blessings that made my list:

9. My hubby coming home safely from a road trip. I let him know he made my list and we both felt pretty great. .

10. It’s FRIDAY!! Need I say more?

11. The fresh smell of clean sheets on my bed.

12. Finally noticing the beautiful Crepe Myrtle trees in my yard that put on a blooming show I had obliviously walked past again and again. And having eyes that are able to see the beauty around me. 

Keep it up, Underdogs! This is powerful stuff!