Gratitude!

Cypress Sunrise

“In moments of surprise we catch at least a glimpse of the joy to which gratefulness opens the door.” 

~ David Steindl-Rast 

As we near the U.S. holiday of Giving Thanks, I am reminded to assess my own genuine feelings of gratitude. I am continuing to learn to be grateful for the almost unseen, unnoticed occurrences that present themselves daily, moment to moment. Today, I am aware of feeling grateful for all of the ways my life has been touched by the many "small" and "daily" presentations that create this rich life of ours — ocean waves, scent of trees, clean water, touch of a hand, a gesture of kindness, and 10,000 other things. 

In the human-scape I am filled with gratitude for my family and dear friends who love and support me in countless ways. In the realm of "land/sea-scape" I am grateful daily for living in relationship with Big Sur and the dynamic meeting of land and sea.

And, what comes to heart and foreground so easily is the many people who have shown up from around the world to attend workshops I led or co-lead in Big Sur, Tassajara, Austria, and come in person to explore with me in a one-to-one sessions. I am blessed to meet so many courageous and remarkable people ready to open to the inner and outer wilds and find their unique and shared way along the pathless path.

With Deep Gratitude,

Steven

P.S. Some more links if you are inclined
A Good Day by Bro. David Steindl-Rast (good friend and co-leader)

Blue Mind: Gratitude for salty ocean waves & direct contact with the sea
Meal Chant Stew  An article about food, traditional blessings, and gratitude