This week I am observing gratitude about the following:

• Every grief, every frustration, every disappointment, every pain, every heartbreak that I have experienced has led me to who I am right now. They have made me stronger, given me perspective and wisdom, and make me appreciate even more the blessings and joy in my life.
• The opportunity to learn from my mistakes and past (and perhaps present) arrogance.
• For laughter that is always essential for getting through challenging moments.
• The litany of values and abundance of privileges that my parents bestowed upon me, and the sense of responsibility to enjoy and share those gifts.
• After decades of loving city life and declaring that I’ll always live in an urban area, I have discovered the virtues and loveliness of life in a Philly suburb that resembles Mayberry. 
• Always learning and experiencing new things. Life is never dull. 
• Mentoring others, which has afforded me the chance to share my experience and continue to gain wisdom.
• The presence of my faith. though I may wrestle with it and not always be mindful about it.
• Everyday reminders to live presently.