Our journey will lead us down many long and winding paths. These paths will guide us around bends, up and down hills, and sometimes onto the freeway. Some routes have smooth pavement, seemingly indifferent as they offer little perspective. Occasionally, the road is filled with gravel, often causing us to stumble as we navigate our lives. At other times, the roads direct us through dense forests, prompting us to pause and reflect on our journey. Then, there are moments when the path takes us through lush green pastures, abundant with wildflowers and our free spirits. We will encounter thunderclouds rolling above us, floods sweeping the earth beneath our feet, the warmth of the sun on our shoulders, the glow of the evening moon, and the stars shining down from above. Each of these will cast shadows on our lives as we wander these roads. This is our human experience. Raging storms and frigid blizzards clash against the hues of the setting August sun and the warmth of the September breeze. The howling winds that cause frostbite come from the same sources as the gentle breeze that cools our skin. How easily we forget life's equation. This reflects the days in our lives. This is the balance we often dread.
Throughout my journey, I discovered that gratitude is a transformative force. It reveals the meaning behind life's challenges and gently guides us to unwrap the gift. We can recognize that storms, losses, failures, pain, and hurt are here to add meaning and depth to our lives, rather than detracting from or derailing them. This is gratitude. Depriving ourselves of these experiences means missing out on some of life's greatest joys.
Seventeen years ago, I embarked on a journey of gratitude. For fifty-two weeks, I expressed my appreciation to the people in my life. This was intended to express my gratitude to them, and it was successful. What also occurred was a transformation within me. At first, I felt selfish due to the profound impact it had on my life. However, I quickly moved past that feeling, as it also affected those to whom I expressed my gratitude. Gratitude touches everyone.
As I enter the final chapter of my sixth decade, I will once again share the depths of my gratitude with others. While I aim to express gratitude to them, I know this is once again transformative in my life.
These individuals made a lasting impression on my heart and in my life. They left their mark on my soul. I hope these small notes of gratitude create a lasting difference in their lives. Please feel free to join me on this journey.
Joys
Johnston, RI
18 June 2025
As I prepare to publish my book, please check back. I will release my archives and entries once I have sorted through them.
