Gratitude

Can you see the holiness in those things you take

for granted--a paved road or a washing machine?

If you concentrate on finding what is good in every

situation, you will discover that your life

will suddenly be filled with gratitude,

a feeling that nurtures the soul.

~ Rabbi Harold Kushner

Today I am overwhelmed with gratitude.

As I walked with the dogs in the park this morning, I appreciated the park, the other dogs & owners, the beautiful weather, my shoes, kleenex, the city I live in, technology, warm air, blue skies, and so much more.

Last night I got together with two friends and it was almost a magical evening. We just sat at the kitchen table, none of us were dressed up or feeling fancy, we drank questionable wine (and laughed a lot about that), we talked and shared and laughed and commiserated. We listened to what is going on in each others' lives, we offered advice when it was needed, empathy when it was needed, and perspective when it was needed. Several times during the evening I found myself thinking about how much I value the friendships of women - these two women in particular, but others, as well. The women I have collected in my life - strong, intelligent, fun, supportive, caring - each one with her own special talents and appeal, each one filling a niche in my life to help keep me healthy, happy, and moving forward - these are the pillars of my life, and I appreciate them all so very much.

This is really not a very complete way for me to say this, somehow the words are not coming easily for me today. If you are a woman, and you are reading this, you are somehow a part of my life - even you internet women whom I've never met in person - and I thank you for being who you are, and for giving what you give to my life, to make me who I am today.

I would thank you from the bottom of my heart,

but for you my heart has no bottom.

~ Anonymous