A Lens Of Gratitude.

This photo has a layout of flowers.

As I prepare to start my day at work, I begin with thanksgiving and gratitude.

This is a choice that I have made. Rather than lament and focus on the things that I am lacking, I give thanks for the things that I have. Even the basics of survival: shelter, food, safety; these are the things we take for granted, especially now. I feel like over the years, Western society has been so wrapped up in things that would be considered a privilege in other places. So many people come from war-torn and impoverished countries where corruption flourishes and leaves its citizens in perpetual suffering. Even here in my country, there is an epidemic of homelessness, addiction, and mental health crises, yet it doesn't compare to what some may be facing as a whole. Still, I do not like to compare suffering because it is subjective; each person has their own threshold of what they may be able to tolerate. Where some have endured immense hardships, some may break at even the idea of discomfort. Rather than comparison, perspective is so important. Considering the suffering of others helps us reevaluate ourselves when we spend time stressing over luxuries, and spiritually helps us to adopt a measure of gratitude.

Love - to know that I am loved first by God, that I am seen and His thought of me is good. Family, friends, my community - many of us take for granted the ones we have cheering us on, the ones that no matter what your accomplishments, they have been placed in your life and in your proximity to help guide you and teach you the importance of connections. For some, it's a hard lesson dealing with difficult personalities, and even strenuous and complex, these relationships help shape us into who we are.

I count my blessings today. I have a great family and friends, a roof over my head, health, clothing, food, and clean water—the simple things, the necessities. The bills and the stressors have not gone away, but my perspective has changed by seeing through a lens of gratitude.