🍁 When Gratitude Feels Hard: A Reflection on Thankfulness

As Thanksgiving draws near, many of us instinctively begin to reflect. Some hearts are full—overflowing with joy, milestones, and moments worth celebrating. But others may be quietly aching, wondering what there is to be thankful for after a year that felt more like survival than celebration.

Here’s the truth: gratitude doesn’t always come wrapped in grand gestures or perfect outcomes. Sometimes, it’s tucked into the smallest, most ordinary moments—the ones we used to overlook.

🌟 What I'm Thankful For This Year:

A clear mammogram—a quiet victory, and a reminder to be proactive about our health (more on being proactive about preventative health in a future post).

The health of my loved ones—something I once took for granted, now cherished deeply.

The beauty of nature—like yesterday, when golden leaves danced in the sunlight and I felt like I was in a movie.

Sustaining relationships—the ones that hold me up, even when the world feels heavy.

The unconditional love that comes from three excitable balls of fur.

Another day on this earth—a gift denied to many, and one I no longer take lightly.

💬 If You’ve Had a Rough Year…

You’re not alone. Gratitude doesn’t erase pain, but it can soften its edges. It can remind us that even in the midst of hardship, there are glimmers—moments of grace, connection, and quiet beauty.

So, if you’re struggling to feel thankful, start small:

A warm cup of coffee.

A friend who checks in.

A sunset that catches you off guard.

A breath you didn’t think you’d take.

Gratitude isn’t about pretending everything’s perfect. It’s about honoring what is—and finding light in the cracks.