Slogan #13
Be Grateful to Everyone
Reflection:
It has been 13 days of 20 minutes of daily sitting and using different doorways to practice. This morning I recited the following mantra for my practice.
Breathe in: I am grateful.
Breathe out: Thank you.
Breathe in: I am grateful.
Breathe out: Thank you.
As I approach my 35th birthday in a few months, I’m reflecting on the past 34 years. I'm grateful for the people, experiences, and challenges that have shaped me. This mindfulness journey has taught me to appreciate every moment, encounter, and part of myself.
First, I think of all the things I'm grateful for: my family in the Philippines who helped shape my formative years, the FRAMILY I’ve created for myself, the lessons from my teachers, and the joy I find in yoga and meditation. Simple pleasures like the warmth of the sun, birds singing, a good book, and quiet moments fill me with peace and contentment. Next, I reflect on something difficult – a challenging situation or someone who caused me pain. At first, it’s hard to feel grateful for these experiences. But when I look deeper, I see the growth and resilience they brought. These challenges pushed me to find inner strength, patience, and empathy. Thinking about difficult people, I try to see them as teachers. They taught me compassion, forgiveness, and understanding. Extending gratitude for these tough parts of my life shifts my perspective. My heart opens, and I feel liberated from negativity and bitterness.
Gratitude for both the good and the challenging parts of my life reveals the interconnected tapestry of my journey. Every experience contributes to the beautiful design of my life. By being grateful to everyone and every part of myself, I honour my journey and the lessons it brings.
