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Gratitude finally broke free from my journal and into my daily life.
And it only took 970 days.
As of today, I've kept a daily gratitude journal for 1,028 days. But the real breakthrough came on day 970. Standing in the kitchen, making a second cup of coffee, something extraordinary happened. Without any conscious effort, gratitude suddenly rose from within, and I spontaneously thanked God for His countless gifts. This wasn't my scheduled gratitude practice—this was different. This was natural. This was real.
I’m not sure what changed for me on day 970, all I know is something did change. My journey began with a daily gratitude journal at the suggestion of a friend. It was something that grounded me each day, and even on the bad days, I had something to be thankful for, though I must admit, on a few of the darkest days, I wrote some expletives instead of things I was grateful for.
Gratitude = Love
Ronald Rolheiser wrote, “The most loving person you know is also the most grateful person you know because even love finds its basis in gratitude.”
He illuminates a profound truth: we can either live as though life and people owe us something, or we can recognize that every good thing that comes our way is a gift.
"The real task of life," Rolheiser emphasizes, "is to recognize that everything is a gift and that we need to keep saying thanks over and over again for all the things in life that we so much take for granted."
This insight strikes at the heart of entitlement - the belief that the world owes us something. But the truth is: it's nobody's job to take care of us.
Gratitude is more than just saying "thank you.” It's about fundamentally shifting how we view our relationship with the world. When we consistently practice gratitude, we see gifts everywhere: in challenges that help us grow, in difficulties that build our resilience, and in the simple moments we often overlook.
Your Gratitude Journey Begins Now…
What one daily ritual could you create to cultivate more gratitude in your life?
Not sure? Download this Daily Gratitude page to get started! It’s my gift to you.
Thank you for the gift of your time, and thank you for being a part of the Catalyst Community.
I’m grateful for you!
Until next time,
PS - Will you do me a favor? If you love this newsletter, will you forward it to one person you know and encourage them to sign up for the weekly Catalyst Newsletter right here?
Sources
Rolheiser, Ronald, Sacred Fire, 246-250