This community post was written by Julie Van. A published writer in the Seattle Times, an exceptionally talented poet, and a long time supporter of The Gratitude Journal.
I am constantly reminded of two important facts: change will happen and growth is a choice. The uncertainty and surprises of life often converge into a sweet whirlwind of learning. And when I think I have things figured out, I am humbled by all that I do not know. I’ve also learned to not be afraid of what I do not know.
The turns of our lives is a result of choice and decisions made. What we choose to do is not only a reflection of ourselves and our values, but the circumstances that have pulled us to the moment. Each choice then weaves into the larger fabric of who we are – and also who we wish to be.
The challenge with choice is the courage needed to make a decision. How do we continue to nurture and care for that seed of confidence that is within us all? Especially on days when it feels as if every movement is a constant wallow through doubt and hesitation.
We remember to look inwards and return to ourselves. We remind ourselves of the strength within and look at our values as a guide. And sometimes we look outwards. During times when I feel myself loosing control, I feel myself pulled tighter to the kind universe and I know that I will be okay.
Whatever we decide to do, we trust ourselves to make the right choice and remain grateful for the chance.
Today I’m Grateful For…
- Fresh flowers to brighten my apartment
- Loved ones in different time zones
- Dancing and confidence in motion
- The last bite of ice cream, every single time
- Home videos and photo albums
- Dawg Saturdays
- Catching up over a shared meal
- Serendipity and things unexplainable
- Getting handwritten letters in the mail
- Cooking and trying new recipes together
- Hiking and time outside
- Sunsets while canoeing on Lake Washington
- Crisp air on early morning runs
- Poetry, both to read and write
- Pear-picking in the garden with my grandparents in the summers
- The mountains, evergreens, the ocean, and all reminders of the PNW
- My parents and siblings
- Both cheesy jokes and witty jokes
- Picnics and frisbee at Gas Works Park
- Trust and hope in the unknown
- The smell of fresh coffee in the morning
- Cross country moves and having multiple places to call home
- My loving and supportive boyfriend, JA
- All that has led me to right now
- This very moment
As always, check out my first blog 25 Things I’m Grateful For (#1) to know why I’m writing this list and why I want you to start yours.
If you’re interested in Guest Blogging for the Gratitude Journal, click (here)!
Featured image of the place I think of as my home. This is probably my best picture of Boyden among many other attempts. It was a warm night and the grass was so green. I have spent A LOT of time on that quad and on those steps. 
