“Gratitude is a divine emotion: it fills the heart, but not to bursting; it warms it, but not to fever.” Charlotte Bronte
Remember when you were young, and your mom or dad would tuck you into bed, the blankets tight and warm around you? That was a physical reflection of the feeling of gratefulness.
That hug from your favorite aunt, wrapping you in her arms and squeezing you tight, her unique scent of chocolate or cinnamon or sage that is eliciting memories of the moment right now and making you smile? That is gratitude for her presence and lessons.
Can you feel your grandfather’s hand on your shoulder, the steady strength and assurity that comes from age’s wisdom? Maybe his face is slashing in your mind and a lesson flitters on the edge of memory, and a warm soft glow in your heart. That is old joy remembered.
That teacher that you still adore decades later because they believed in you.
The friend that takes care of you after surgery or brings you chicken soup when you are sick and even in your weakness and wretchedness you smile.
You have felt it before. Feel grateful again, be thankful to those that warm us from within.