A couple weeks ago it was Thanksgiving here in the U.S. and even though the history of the holiday is fraught, for me personally it’s always a day to spend with good food and the people I love and to take a moment to reflect on what I have in my life instead of what might be missing.
And, of course, the new year is right around the corner and that’s another time for assessing where I am and what I want for the next year. And, in this case, the next decade.
In some key respects, my life is not ideal. But in all the ones that matter the most I have to say that I am incredibly grateful to be where I am and to have what I have and to have done what I’ve done in my life.
It’s not part of my natural disposition to stop and count my blessings. I’m always pushing forward, wanting more. (Not more money as my career choices have shown…but more satisfaction or happiness or accomplishment.) I’m trying harder these days, though, to take those breaks. To sit in the moment and find the pleasure in where I am and what I have right now.
Not too long, though, or else the next book won’t get written. But long enough to let that contentment sink in.
You should do it, too. I assume if you have the time and resources to read this blog then there’s a lot going right in your life even if it’s not perfect right now.
M.L. Humphrey 