The most important thing in this moment for me is an awareness of God and His/Her presence in all things at all times. And gratitude for the precious, precious gift of being alive (“…that there is anything at all,” as Brother D. says.) I can get busy with the details of the day and forget these things…I’m in the best shape when I remember. Thanks for this opportunity to “remember.”

Good morning, community! Yes, I am being faithful to my values: my reading of Brother David began in the mid-80s (“Gratefulness: the Heart of Prayer.) Since then, what he talks about have become my values. That combined with my 12-step values have become my life – and it’s a wonderful one!

I think I’d turn this question around: when I AM wholehearted in my gratitude for and appreciation of life itself (“that there is anything at all”: Brother D.) I experience a grace, and know on some level that that’s why I am here.

I can make my 90-year-old mother laugh with deadpan humor. I listen to see if I’m having that effect!

I guess my old bugaboo, fear. Fear of losing my job, of not being able to pay my bills. The release of judgment of others would also be freeing. Just to accept others exactly as they are – such a fine way to treat or to be treated.

Interesting question. I can’t kid myself that my “hard days” (and truth be told I can measure them in years) might not figure that way to others. I’m multiply addicted and TG in recovery, for today. Those bad days were really that, by anyone’s estimation. By God’s grace, that is not the case today. In fact, today I pray in gratitude daily for the “precious, precious gift of life.”

A smile as we pass by.

Brother David’s aura of kindness always touches me. In college (a long time ago!) I remember being touched by the kindness of some professors (made me want to be one!)

Gratefulness reminds me how richly blessed I am–and have always been. It connects me with those blessings and a reverence for life.

Ah, such a good one for me: I’m such a clock person, adhering strictly to my schedule. I guess if I measured it by moments, it would include this early-morning writing and community of like-minded souls. It would include my trip to Dunkin’ Donuts this AM to get an iced coffee (such a treat!) I am so clock-bound it would be a big stretch for me to “count the moments!”

The subtleties of nature – the slant of sunlight through my white sheers, the purple crocus nestled alone in the grass, recognizing the faint sound of a familiar song.

I am recovering in a 12-step program and feel reverence for it and the healing it (God) has brought to me.

I’m a good listener, learned it from many years of listening to my mother, who’s a talker. When I’m in conversation with others, I can be still & listen. Also, when I retire at about 5p, get under my covers, see the view of trees, sky and sunset framed by my windows. Then I can relax and listen.

I guess the delight of children is a good place to start as far as answering this one. I do often feel their simple delight just in being alive. As Brother David says, “…that there is anything at all!”

My life is a simple, busy one and brings me joy. My morning daily meditation books, these writings & reading others’, coffee, food, nature, my walks, living with my cat, Lucy, my lunches with friends on Saturdays, family. I guess God is probably pretty simple and so is my life.

The God who sustains me – through good and bad. I pray to see Him in the difficult times too. The beauty of nature that also sustains me. The love of family & friends. My spiritual journey, part of which are these daily writings & this community!

Indeed it is!

I like the “first,” Kevin. I am grateful that others smile at me, but am workin’ on “Smiling first!”

Thanks, Anna! Enjoy your day!

Thanks, Kevin. I’m a writer, so appreciate your comment!