Gratitude That Changes Us

On Sunday, Rev. Michael Auch invited us to look at gratitude as a spiritual power, something that can change us, along with the world around us. Sure, saying ‘thank you’ is one way to express gratitude (and sometimes, a simple thank you is enough).

But the practice of gratitude is so much more. Science shows that feeling grateful changes us neurologically. It strengthens our well-being, nourishes our relationships, and can even open our minds to new possibilities.

Gratitude shifts us into a state of abundance, so we notice where our lives are full, rich, and generous. It’s simple, but it’s not small.

Finding gratitude in something undesirable can help us shift that something into a benefit. It helps build our resilience and lessens stress and anxiety.

Sometimes, gratitude is easy. Sometimes it’s work. It’s always powerful.

Wisdom From Everywhere

We're encouraged to not just think gratitude but to experience it with all our senses. To let a simple moment, such as the smell of cinnamon, the taste of coffee, or the warmth of a hug, become an expression of our good.

Gratitude for What’s Hard

Michael shared several personal stories (you can watch on YouTube if you missed his talk), including when he was fired from a job. That’s a hard thing to be grateful for and yet, it gave him time to spend with his aging mother as she transitioned to a new home with more care. I’ve had similar experiences, those both/and moments, and his talk reminded me of how grateful I am for everything that came next.

We often need reminders, especially when it comes to the hard things. It’s not sugar-coating; it’s finding the good anyway. I’ve found myself saying there’s beauty in anguish, and while I’m in no hurry to experience anguish again, I stand by that. There’s always a ‘silver lining.’

When We Disagree

We’re living in a time of deep division. It’s loud, it’s painful, and it’s stressful. Rev. Michael reminded us that gratitude can help bridge that divide, not by ignoring our differences, but by seeing the humanity in “the other.” By finding compassion for those who think or do differently.

That kind of gratitude is spiritual courage.

Gratitude in Action

Gratitude expressed is gratitude received. You embodied that compassion and courage by demonstrating community care. Whether you generously gave or expressed a need when funding for SNAP benefits stalled, it's an important expression. Thank you to all for showing up courageously. As mentioned, those who needed help have received support, and we'll now pause donations while we monitor what happens, donating to Ballard Food Bank if the needs are covered. Ballard Food Bank is a local gift; the work they do for so many is extraordinary. They will continue to need support throughout the coming winter season.

What’s Coming Up

These are listed elsewhere in the newsletter, but I want to highlight that these are all great opportunities to invite your friends, family, and neighbors, and apply what we learned at Rev. Larry's workshop on talking about our Center:

• Meaningful Movies: Bring Them Home (tomorrow evening) at 6 p.m.

• Holiday Decorating Nov. 28 at 7 p.m.

• Jingle Jam (raffle prizes welcome!) Dec. 13

• Christmas Eve with Rev. Liz Mirante

Acknowledgements and actions

I've enjoyed seeing longtime members returning recently, and the energy our new members bring to our community is invigorating. There are new ideas afloat, and I'm excited to continue down this path of gratitude expressed.

A very big thank-you to Kris Steinnes for taking on events and rentals. Her expertise and enthusiasm are such gifts. It truly takes a village.

Borrowing from Michael's talk, here's a little exercise for the week ahead, especially as we go into Thanksgiving week, knowing we may engage with family where old stories take flight and beliefs or viewpoints differ.

• Attention: Notice how often you feel grateful and what you're grateful for

• Acknowledge: Notice 'what' about that 'thing' makes you feel grateful

• Appreciate: Embody the feeling and notice where you feel it

• Action: Express how you feel to someone

Repeat as needed (especially on the hard days).

With gratitude,

Laura