Finding Gratitude in Every Corner: Big, Small, and Unexpected Moments 🕯️🍂

As the holidays draw near, my thoughts seem to circle back to gratitude. It’s as though the season itself whispers reminders to pause, reflect, and notice what’s good around us. But gratitude isn’t always easy or obvious. Sometimes, it’s tucked into the smallest moments or wrapped in the challenges we’d rather avoid.

This morning, as I prayed and journaled, I found myself thanking not just the people who cheer me on but also those who challenge me. The ones who stretch me, frustrate me, or unknowingly make my life harder. These people, though difficult at times, have taught me to grow, to lead, and to love in deeper ways. They are part of the light that sharpens and refines me.

Gratitude for the Little Things

Gratitude isn’t always about the big, life-changing moments. Sometimes, it’s found in the quiet, overlooked corners of our days: the warmth of a cup of coffee shared with a loved one, the sound of laughter around a table, or the peace of a single deep breath in the midst of chaos.

It’s so easy to miss these moments in the busyness of life, but when we pause to notice them, they shine like little lanterns guiding us toward peace. These small blessings—whether they’re shared smiles or a few stolen seconds of quiet—are what anchor us in seasons that feel overwhelming.

And as we take time to notice these little gifts, we may find ourselves more open to the people around us, even when connection feels complicated.

Gratitude for Connection Amid the Chaos

The holidays bring us face-to-face with all kinds of people—some we can’t wait to see and others who might challenge our patience. But what if we chose to see these gatherings as opportunities for connection, growth, and grace?

What if we approached every person, whether they’re easy to love or not, as someone carrying a soul longing to be seen, loved, and valued?

This doesn’t mean ignoring boundaries or pretending everything is perfect. It means choosing to lead with light and humility, to extend hope even when it feels difficult.

And in these moments of connection—whether joyful or challenging—we discover a quiet peace. A peace that doesn’t come from everything being easy, but from showing up with an open heart.

Gratitude for Peace in the Small Moments

There’s a beauty in letting go of perfection and embracing the messiness of life. When we release the need to control every outcome, we create space for peace. And in that space, gratitude grows.

This year, I’m learning to be thankful not just for the easy moments but for the hard ones too. The people who challenge me are refining me, teaching me what it means to lead with grace and resilience. The little moments I might otherwise miss are grounding me, reminding me to slow down and savor what matters most.

Gratitude, I’ve realized, is like holding a lantern in the dark—it illuminates not only the joyful moments but also the lessons hidden in life’s challenges.

A Call to Hope-Bringers

As we gather this season, let’s bring our light with us. Let’s be the ones who create space for connection, who notice the small blessings, and who shine hope into the lives of those around us.

We may not change every situation or heal every hurt, but we can choose to bring warmth and light to the people sitting beside us. And as we do, let’s walk away from the table with a little more grace, and perhaps more growth (and by growth I mean more than just the type that comes from too much stuffing).

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Wishing you peace, light, and a healthy dose of mashed potatoes!

XO,

Jenna