Dwelling in That Grateful Place
by Nancy Pritchard, January, 2009
©2009, Nancy Pritchard, All Rights Reserved

A few months ago I received a 2009 spiritual journey diary as a Christmas gift. It's a very valuable tool for recording plans and goals as well as affirmations and dream memories over the course of the year. I've enjoyed my journal more than I can say. Spontaneously one January evening, I used the journal to record a few items that had happened over the course of that day for which I was especially grateful. It felt so good to record and reflect upon those items of gratitude that I've continued that practice throughout 2009. In each day's space in the journal I record five things that have occurred or that I've noticed over the course of the day that I'm truly grateful for. It's a great way to end the day, and if you ever have trouble dragging yourself out of bed in the morning (and who doesn't on occasion?) leafing through a gratitude journal before you rise can be just the spark you need to get moving. 

By focusing on the things we are grateful for, we draw more good things to ourselves. As such, you may want to consider starting a gratitude practice of your own, especially if you're dealing with excessive negativity these days. The current economic climate has adversely affected many of us. And although spring is around the corner, the weather doesn't always cooperate, so maybe you're still dealing with a case of the winter blahs. A gratitude practice can help. The items on your list certainly don't have to be pricey or lofty items. In fact, it's often the simplest pleasures in life that we find we're most grateful for - such as a sunny day, afternoon coffee with a friend, or the way your faithful pet greets you upon your arrival home. 

The following is my version of an evening gratitude routine. You may wish to modify the exercise into a practice that specifically resonates with you: 


1 - Retire to a quiet place. Light a candle, take a few deep, cleansing breaths, or do whatever it takes to make you feel grounded and centered. 

2 - Using a planner, calendar, notebook or journal make a list of five things you are grateful for. As you record each item, take the time to savor the warm feeling of gratefulness that goes along with that item. 

3 - Each morning, set aside a few minutes to review your gratitude items - especially if mornings are difficult for you. (You can also review your gratitude diary anytime you feel negativity creeping into your life.)   

4 - Continue this practice for a month. If it feels right, you may decide to continue into the future. 


Gratitude is contagious. It opens our minds and hearts and it just feels so good to be in that state of thankfulness! Notice how your gratitude increases in direct proportion to your focus upon it.

That, in itself, is something to be grateful for. 


Nancy Pritchard is the Facilitator for the monthly Tao Study Group, 'Living a Peaceful Life' at The Healing Way. The group meets the first Thursday of each month from 7 - 8 pm. For the date of the group's next meeting, see the online calendar of events.

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