Gratitude in Every Moment: A Thanksgiving Reflection

As I sit down to write this, the word on my mind and in my heart is gratitude. More than just a word, it’s the feeling that defines Thanksgiving for me. As I've shared, my heart is heavy with all that’s happening in the world and it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of events and emotions swirling around us. Still, I know, deep in my soul, that gratitude is the key to shifting my energy. Whether it’s for the big things or the small, gratitude has the power to transform.

This Thanksgiving, I have so much to be grateful for, and acknowledging those things that make my heart beat happy helps me ground myself in hope and peace.

I’m profoundly grateful for the freedom I’ve gained since selling my retreat center, Ripple on Silver Lake. That sale brought me physical, emotional, financial, and time freedom. I no longer carry the daily responsibilities of managing a busy property or the weight of its financial demands. Now, I have the space to relax, rejuvenate, and reflect on what’s next in my life. As I look back on the experience of serving as a steward to that magical property, I am forever grateful all the learning and the growing I experienced there as well as what I am bringing forth as I plan my next steps. And I'm grateful for the people who have supported me all along the way and continue to do so.

I'm grateful for my Ukranian family. I was happy to provide them with a place to land when they first arrived in the US seeking asylum for the war in their country. Now I am honored to call them family and cherish the unbreakable bond we have formed.

I’m grateful for time—time to write, time to dream, and time to curl up with my cats, Luna and Sundae. Their sweet snuggles and gentle purring warm my heart and soothe my soul, lifting my spirits and elevating my vibration in ways words can’t describe.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to spend meaningful time with my dad. We’ve been reminiscing about family memories, and he’s been sharing stories I’ve never heard before—about his childhood, my mom, and the journey of raising a family. We've had some deep conversations about values, integrity, what's happening in the world and the meaning of it all. These moments feel like treasures, and I’m savoring every one of them. And I'm grateful to have the time to help my dad finish up his Storyworth book and add some pictures. (If you haven't heard of Storyworth, I highly recommend it as an easy way for your loved ones to share their stories with you and your family.)

I’m even grateful for the shift in seasons this year. While I’ve always loved winter and have a passion for skiing, I’m surprised by how much I appreciate not having to prepare for the cold. Instead, I’m enjoying warm days with my toes in the sand, walking along the beach at sunset.

I’m grateful for technology. I recently splurged on a new computer, which feels like the perfect tool for the online training I’m preparing to launch. I’m grateful for my business coaches, who are challenging me in ways I’ve never experienced but absolutely love.

Even the little things bring gratitude to my heart: my noise-canceling earbuds that turn the chaos of errands into a personal concert hall, the workspace and sleeping area I’ve created at my dad’s house, complete with ceiling fans and AC to keep me comfortable. (Let’s just say my dad’s ideas of home decor and temperature control don’t quite align with mine!)

I’m grateful for the tools I’ve cultivated to manage frustration and anger, which seem to arise more often as I process my thoughts and feelings about the state of the world. Heart breathing and practicing uncommon appreciation are my favorite and never fail me, reminding me to breathe deeply, choose gratitude in the moment, and raise my vibration instantly.
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Above all, I’m grateful for my belief in a higher power, a faith that reassures me that everything happens for our learning and growth—even when the bigger picture is unclear.

This Thanksgiving, gratitude feels like my lifeline, anchoring me amidst uncertainty and guiding me toward hope.

Reflection Questions

1. What are some of the big things you’re grateful for this year?
2. What small, everyday moments or items bring you joy and gratitude?
3. How can you use gratitude as a tool to shift your energy when life feels heavy or uncertain?
4. What lessons or blessings have come from unexpected changes in your life?​​

As you reflect on your own blessings this Thanksgiving, may your heart be filled with peace, hope, and gratitude. 💛

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