In contemplating that which we are thankful for, what may most easily come to mind is our blessings. But what do we consider a blessing? We might define our blessings as those aspects of life in which we deem ourselves fortunate — the people, animals, places, activities and experiences in which we find fulfillment and joy.
What maybe isn’t so easy to be thankful for, though, are life’s challenges. Loss, hardship, trauma and pain don’t typically top the list when counting one’s blessings. But I have found that my greatest challenges — and the healing, growth and wisdom earned from moving through them — have come to share equal space with my most stupendous joys.
We humans in general have a propensity toward cozy comfort, so sometimes it takes pain, disruption, chaos or change in life to shake us up, wake us up, and continue forward motion. The best part about counting both gifts and challenges as blessings? We begin to live our lives from within a state of gratitude, thankful for every type of experience, and seeing our world in a more connected and purposeful light.
This year on Thanksgiving, when reflecting on all that you are thankful for, you might include on your list the challenges that have helped to shape who you are — perfect — exactly where and as you should be. Aho 🙏
