I don’t know what it is…but my gratitude hasn’t been as easy to put into words lately. It’s not that I am not grateful. I am very, very grateful, and Psalm 46, 100, 121…they reside in my thoughts always.

I guess it isn’t easy to put into words because I do not take the time to make naming my blessings out loud or through my fingers a priority these days. And, when I do not take the time, it is like not taking the time to pray, or to read, or to eat well. The further away I get from naming them one by one, the harder it is to get back to it.

When I was in trauma and had a gratitude accountability partner, it was easy. I needed to find a blessing somewhere in the midst of the darkness. Last weekend, Chris, Connie, and Geri talked about Corrie ten Boom and her sister being grateful about having fleas in their beds that resulted in the guards avoiding their “dorm.” Trauma. Find the good. Count it ALL joy.

Just take the time. There is joy in the naming.

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I am grateful to be reminded today that Mom entered heaven seven years ago tomorrow.

I am grateful for a weekend away to spend with my Oklahoma friends. Safe space, laughter, and they allowed me to unload without fear of judgment.

I am grateful for our foster son who brings us so much joy and has added life to our home.

I am grateful for two little kittens who provide mental healing for Sam and for me.

I am grateful for a good vacuum.

I am grateful for a couple of former students who still include me in their lives.

I am grateful for winter which gives me reason to wear sweaters and hoodies and feel comfort in staying inside to enjoy the fireplace.

I am grateful for our first Airbnb booking.

I am grateful that I was at least smart enough to put this thing together all by myself.

I am grateful for reminders to live not to please God but to live to trust God. Thank you, Navigators.

I am grateful for the Chiefs. Simple joys, cheering for the team.

I am grateful for really great neighbors – it’s a big deal and one you don’t realize until you don’t have really great neighbors. We have them, and we don’t want to take them for granted.

I am grateful for Karen. She let me unload the personalist of personal thoughts, and she understood.

And I am grateful for the sound of a cardinal this sunny afternoon. God music. Thanks, Mom.