Sometimes I find myself in a place where I forget to be deeply grateful for the little things in my life that brings me happiness and joy. I find that the day to day toil of keeping my head above water can make me forget and miss the opportunities to identify those moments. Recently I particularly became aware of this treadmill mindset of just keeping going without noticing when I experience joy. This weekend there was a moment of quiet when I sat in my garden to eat my lunch and the magic just happened.
Rays of the sun filtering through the trees
I became aware of the rays of the sun through the tree, the birds in the birdbath and the taste of my food. My heart became light and joyful. I recognised the moment with great gratitude – a joy to be alive! It went further. I took a while longer to also acknowledge all the other opportunities that bring so much joy and opportunity into my life. My little rescue dog that is with me in South Africa, the walking, running and yoga that makes me so strong. My work that allows me flexibility to develop my yoga, but brings structure and financial security, without which my life would be very challenging during this time. I am grateful for my regular clients who show up regularly for the joy of yoga in their lives and the way it makes them feel. Mostly the privilege to share the magic and joy of yoga with them.
My rescue dog, Woodie
I am sharing this because once I recognised and acknowledged the joy, the gratitude changed my perspective on so many levels. Suddenly I did not notice the troubles that bring the dark dullness into my life nor the restrictions that come with living with COVID in our midst. It helped me think creatively on what is possible and to pursue that with enthusiasm.
“We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” — Thornton Wilder
How do you feel at the moment in your life? Do you recognise the little or big moments of joy in your life and do you take a moment to acknowledge it with gratitude?