Gratitude: More Than Thanks
Isn’t it magical when something completely unexpected emerges?! In the March newsletter I offered the opportunity for energetic spring cleaning via the 25 Day Energy Organization Challenge and Space Clearing Meditation. In this challenge, I personally focused on releasing layers of perfectionism; what emerged from that healing was not what I expected!
Behind my fears were not more fears or blocks as I have come accustomed to. Instead, there was a massive wave of celebration with a sense of completion, and with it, a deeper understanding of gratitude!
It seems that most of us, not just perfectionistic types like me, are blocked in our ability for celebration and gratitude? “Not me” you say, “I’m pretty good at celebrating things and people, I notice the world around me and all the gifts”. Yeah, that’s what I said too. Turns out, at least for me…
…I was mostly avoiding the mirror of gratitude and celebration. Shadow work had become so comfortable that joy was seemingly foreign. Sound familiar?
As a society & culture, we are so wired to move on quickly after arriving at a goal. We are wired to keep at the daily grind. We aren’t pausing long enough to celebrate our efforts, our dedication, our growth, or the support we had along the way. Instead, we set a new bar and get back to work. But you can’t spend your whole life on the toilet (aka releasing crap)!
Let’s shift to loving ourselves better so we can live better.
Every time you say for example, “wow that tree is so beautiful”, recognize that tree is a mirror and also say “wow, I am so beautiful!” Even if you don’t totally believe it - especially if you don’t totally believe it. Gratitude is a practice. It is a simple expression of celebration and joy that must be equally offered and received.
