Grateful After

---

What are you thankful for today? Despite the unfortunate news of Trump’s premature cabinet picks, current injustices, and health concerns, finding time to express gratitude is possible.   

I remember being asked, “What are you grateful for?” while sitting at dinner tables on Thanksgiving. I hated that part of the holiday; I wanted to ignore the question, eat, and play with my cousins. One look from my parents informed me that skipping the question was not an option.

My quick response to avoid punishment went something like, “I am grateful for food. Next person, please.”

Today, I value daily gratitude practices. Holidays with dark histories involving Indigenous people or festive religious traditions with saints don’t dictate the need to pause before sunrise. Every morning, I list the people, qualities, and things I appreciate.

Do you journal about your goals, ideas, and experiences? Try adding a few sentences dedicated to gratitude. The ritual can help you begin your day with joy.

A gratitude practice helps us stop the busyness and recognize the vital components of our lives. We shouldn’t wait until awkward moments around Thanksgiving feasts to be grateful for everything that helps us engage in meaningful work.

On Monday, I closed affairs at the university. I started the first of twenty vacation days remaining on my final contract. When I packed up the last stack of books, took down my pictures, and closed the door to my office, I put a period at the end of another chapter.

I have worked in the Education Enhancement Department at the American University of Antigua for six years. Since 2018, I have created student support programs, authored two academic books, taught multiple courses, and mentored more students than I can count.

A student leader from the running club visited me on my last campus day. He shared how I helped him discover his purpose and establish self-care habits. We hugged at the end of our conversation and promised to stay in contact.

It’s impossible not to be grateful for my work at AUA. Once word of my departure spread, I received several emails from students thanking me for my services. The faculty and administration surprised me and two other faculty members with a plaque and a going-away tea party on our last day.

Although I may not have responded to every message, each gesture of appreciation resonated with me. Through various projects and services, I used my writing, speaking, video editing, and athletic skills to help the campus thrive. It's a blessing to receive validation of my contributions to the campus.

Do you have a job that allows you to help others? Does the work pay you enough to have a decent home and put food on your table?

Pause before reading the next line.

If you answered yes to the previous questions, consider it a good thing. Only some people can say they have employment or a business that empowers them to make a living and push society in the right direction.

I learned of a scholar-practitioner's challenges with Multiple Sclerosis during this week of turkey trots and what nots. Dr. Lynette Danley cannot work and is also experiencing difficulties securing housing. If you can donate during this holiday season, please support the GoFundMe Fundraiser at this link.  

At any minute, our lives can change.

Let's prioritize gratitude after Thanksgiving. What are you grateful for today? Drop a comment below November’s vlog episode. Subscribe to this blog for similar posts and start or resume a daily gratitude practice.