Yesterday, Mother’s Day, did turn out to be very difficult, with me feeling like I’d been hit from both sides without Mom and Sarah, and I just got into bed and slept for a long time. Max did his best to try to cheer me up and my Dad called as well, but I’m just glad the day is over. I feel very depleted.
I guess it must be time for another list of some things I’m grateful for, right, right? The Jewish News sent me an article recently just chock full of scientific studies about the connection between lower rates of depression and mental illness for people who take the time to be grateful every day and express their gratitude. Strangely, no connection between better mental health and high rates of snideness and snarkiness and sarcasm.
The Jewish News recommends starting with the Shehechiyanu (a Jewish Prayer): “Thank you God for keeping me alive, sustaining me, and letting me reach this moment in time.” Well okay. I’m not sure I buy into that version of God as a kind of nanny and crossing guard, getting me across every street safely and making sure I floss and use my turn signals, but I get the general idea. Hat tip to God.
So without further ado:
- I’m grateful for my husband. He’s kind, caring, and listens to me (most of the time) and is a very affectionate person. He tells me he loves me every day and it’s a day brightener.
- I’m grateful for my work unit and my supervisors. I like what I do and I respect and like the people I work with/for, personally and professionally. I’ve had some pretty awful work set-ups and this is such a treat.
- I’m grateful I have time to write this blog.
- I’m grateful my Dad is still alive and is healthy.
- I’m grateful to have freedom from want: we have a house, health insurance, bills are paid, savings, etc.
So there you go! I’m sure my morale is going straight through the roof now that I’ve constructed my gratitude list, and sunshinier days are surely on the way. I’m off to skip through the neighborhood holding hands with Polly the Beagle.
The First Year Without Sarah 