Yesterday’s challenge was to smile, and apparently I got a head start. The weather was so nice that I took two long walks outside. I enjoyed watching the birds, the squirrels, what’s left of the fall colors, and the peaceful waters of Lake Harriet. It was hard not to smile, and that seemed to make everything else a little better. I’m beginning to think these challenges build on each other.
Today’s challenge is to appreciate nature. This should be easy. I’ve already watched a beautiful sunrise, and with the weather cooperating, I plan to get in another walk or two. I’ll end the day at an NFL game where they even make it snow indoors. Not exactly natural, but pretty cool.
Watch the sunrise and sunset. Look up and appreciate the clouds, the blue sky, or the stars. Tonight is a new moon, so it’s a particularly good opportunity to enjoy the night sky. And don’t forget to look closer to the ground. Find beauty in the animals, trees, and grass around you. Enjoy what’s left of autumn. We sometimes let the weather dictate our attitude, even though we have absolutely no control over it. We do, however, have some control over how we respond. A little rain doesn’t have to ruin our day, and a beautiful day doesn’t do us much good if we never stop to appreciate it.
Tonight, take a few minutes to journal about what you appreciated in the world around you today. Did you notice something beautiful that you might otherwise have missed? Sometimes gratitude is simply a matter of paying attention.
