As a new year commences, we often set resolutions, and turn the page to start things anew. During the holiday season of Thanksgiving or Christmas, we are frequently reminded to both share and appreciate the non-material gifts of life and be thankful for what we have. We need not delay in starting or re-starting these practices, though.

“Nature’s beauty is a gift that cultivates appreciation and gratitude.”

Louie Schwartzberg

When the challenges of life grow heavy, stepping away to focus on different details can be just what we need. And while that refocus can take place anywhere — in a car, in your home, at work — the natural world is particularly inviting for this purpose.

Admiring the intricacies and textures of a mature birch tree, with the rough edges peeled back to reveal an unblemished new layer of bark, one is reminded of the importance of giving space and air to a fresh view, and to shed the layers that restrict growth, even while appreciating the lessons left behind.

“We are showered every day with gifts; but they are not meant for us to keep. Their life is in their movement, the inhale and the exhale of our shared breath. Our work and our joy is to pass along the gift and to trust that what we put out into the universe will always come back.”

Robin Wall Kimmerer, from her book “Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants”

My 365 days (or 366, since 2024 is a leap year!) of recommitting to a practice of gratitude begins today. Feel free to follow along, and join me in your own journey, in finding something each day that inspires gratitude and a culture of kindness.

~ Kat B.