Exploring Now

As I sit in India, surrounded by the harsh realities of the world today, I cannot help but feel a sense of guilt for the privileged life I lead. It seems unfair that some are born into suffering while others are born with every advantage. This feeling of helplessness can be overwhelming, but I have found hope in an unexpected place: gratitude. The practice of gratitude has transformed my perspective, helping me to appreciate the abundance in my life and find healing in the midst of pain.

Ayurveda, one of my passions, teaches that everything can be medicine. This means that every substance and experience has a qualitative nature, and that opposite qualities can balance one another out. Gratitude, with its positive and uplifting nature, is one such experience that can be curative. By the simple act of being grateful, we can shift our mindset and create positive change in our lives.

Practicing gratitude is not always easy, though. In a world that often seems cruel and unjust, it can be hard to find things to be thankful for. I have found that the key is to start small. Instead of trying to force myself to be thankful for everything in my life, I focus on one thing each day. It might be something as simple as a beautiful sunrise or the taste of my favorite food. But by consciously acknowledging and feeling gratitude for these things, I am able to shift my focus away from what I lack and towards what I have.

Another important aspect of practicing gratitude is to cultivate a sense of mindfulness. This means being present in the moment, fully aware of each experience as it unfolds. By staying grounded in the present, we can appreciate even the small things in life that might otherwise go unnoticed. Mindfulness also helps us to appreciate the people in our lives. By being fully present with those we love, we can deepen our relationships and create a sense of connection that goes beyond words.

Gratitude is not just about being thankful for the good things in life, however. It is also about finding meaning in the difficult times. When we face challenges, it can be tempting to give in to despair and hopelessness. But if we can find even a glimmer of gratitude in the midst of struggle, we can create a sense of resilience and strength that will carry us through. Whether it’s gratitude for the lessons we learn, the love and support of others, or the opportunity to grow and change, finding gratitude in difficult times can help us to see the world in a new light.

In a world that can often feel dark and overwhelming, gratitude is like a light that can guide us through. It has the power to transform our perspectives, heal our pain, and create positive change in our lives. Whether we are practicing gratitude for the little things in life or finding meaning in difficult times, the act of being grateful is one of the most powerful and transformative forces available to us. So today, I am grateful for the opportunity to share this message with all of you, and I hope that it brings a sense of hope and joy to your day.

One last note, I do have a transformative book on Gratitude and a Gratitude Journal available for download….. I would be grateful if you downloaded it!

Love, Michelle and Amala