I began this gratitude journal in 2010 after reading Ann Voskamp’s One Thousand Gifts. I have let it lapse way too many times–otherwise, I would be way past 1800 items by this point–but I am always glad when I pick it back up. It helps keep my mind focused during the day on what I might be thankful for, to record later in the day in this little book. Lately, I have been keeping an art card at the side just to bring some more beauty into my day. (This one is John William Waterhouse’s, “The Flower Picker”.)
“An act of thanksgiving, when things go wrong with us, is worth a thousand thanks when things are agreeable to our inclinations.” (St. John of Avila)
“Can you see the holiness in those things you take for granted–a paved road or a washing machine? If you concentrate on finding the good in every situation you will discover that your life will suddenly be filled with gratitude, a feeling that nurtures the soul.” (Rabbi Harold Kushner)
Witnesses to Hope 