I started this year with a forty day gratitude challenge. It seems a lifetime ago. The challenge was a mental health exercise which seemed timely then and prescient now.
A wise friend once told me that while you’re practicing gratitude you’re incapable of having a pity party; it’s like sneezing with your eyes open. Not possible.
I set up the challenge as a forty day sadhana. Sadhana, from Sanskrit, is a disciplined spiritual practice to help the seeker achieve liberation. I embrace the rituals of spiritual practice; they give foundation to quotidian tasks. And yes, I’m seeking liberation from ennui and the mean reds. Forty days has proven to be the optimal length of time to set a new habit. Since the days of sheltering in place I’ve found myself continuing the habit, not daily but consistently. What started as a lifehack for the cycles of despair that come with the artist life has become a useful tool for isolation anxiety in a pandemic.
It’s interesting that the things I’m grateful for have remained consistent, well except travel. I’m grateful to not have to travel right now. But I’m still grateful for heated spaces, healthy food, a cozy bed, my friends and my family. My tribe of fellow travelers give purpose and context to the experience of this ride.
I like to think we all are limited to one carry-on for the journey. Gratitude is an essential for my well being on the road (or at home).
We all have choices with our baggage, pack wisely.
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