Being present to find gratitude
Looking for gratitude by being present in the moment will transform any ordinary everyday experience.
I’m just back from a run where I intentionally looked for awe to inspire some gratitude on a route that I travel almost every day. Here’s what I noticed on this routine 30-minute outing.
The sounds of birds—and that I recognized the type of most of the birds even though I couldn’t see them
The ringing of bells as cyclists signalled they were behind and about to pass—I appreciate their consideration
The interactions with people passing travelling in the opposite direction. I said “Good morning.” to every person, some said, “Good morning.” and some didn’t even acknowledge me. Instead of judging those who didn’t respond, in my mind I shared an intention that I hoped they were enjoying their music (with headphones on, they might not have even heard me) or enjoying their solitude or enjoying whatever.
The fun I have as I approach walkers from behind—I say, “On your left.” And they usually respond with a friendly acknowledgement. And then as I’m passing I say, “Not breaking any speed records, just on your left.” It usually always gets a laugh so I enjoy anticipating their response to what is the same joke over and over and over again (although with a different audience).
The smell of the forest—and noticing how it changes from week to week depending on what is in bloom
Being able to avoid the odd dropping of dog poop on the trail— grateful for the gift of sight and balance. And again, as I work to be judgement-free, I considered that maybe they didn’t have a poop bag or even more likely, maybe it came from a wild animal
Seeing an acquaintance who is going in for heart surgery tomorrow and doing everything to avoid getting covid because he’s very compromised. I found joy in seeing him and his wife who were out for a walk enjoying the day.
Seeing a former work colleague but only recognizing him after he returned my greeting with, “Hi.” as he sped by on his bike. It made my heart leap and reminded me of previous runs together with him—and that he always ran in tennis shorts.
Seeing many of the regulars on the trail which made things feel like home.
Feeling the warmth of sun on my face and my back, which intensifies the workout and enjoying the shade of the trees that provided a refreshing coolness along the final mile
Talk about an overwhelming feeling of gratitude !
You can recreate this for any experience in your day. It could be during your regular workout or it could be during your weekly staff meeting or any other routine you have.
It is extremely easy to be present and experience the amazing power of gratitude but unfortunately it is even easier to not be present because of everything else going on in your mind. For me it takes a discipline to tell myself to pay attention and notice and then keep reminding myself, “Steve, are you noticing ? Keep it up Steve—keep paying attention !”
Do you have any tips on being present and finding gratitude and awe in the ordinary ? Please share.
