Suncoast Hospice Director of Spiritual Care Jim Andrews
I have some wonderful childhood memories of conversations with my mom when I was feeling sad or discouraged. She would listen closely and empathize as I shared what was upsetting me. Then after It was all out, she would say, “Why don’t we count our blessings now?” I would start listing off all the things in my life that I was so thankful for and that brought me joy. She would share some too, and I was always at the top of her list. Those conversations always left me feeling so much better.
As author and cultural anthropologist Ralph Blum says, “There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy.” Especially now, when we face so many challenges personally, professionally, even globally – may we take time each day to experience the quiet joy of recognizing and appreciating all that is beautiful and meaningful and good in our lives.
Have a great week, everyone!
Jim
