Finding Light in Every Day

November brings a focus on gratitude, with reminders all around us in social media, seasonal decorations, and the activities filling every school I visit. Having spent over 30 years in education, I’ve seen gratitude expressed in countless ways, from handmade worksheets to thoughtful digital assignments. Though the forms may change, the core message remains the same.

Yet dedicating just one month to gratitude feels like scratching the surface. True gratitude is a daily practice, one that goes beyond a mere sense of relief in “not having it worse.” Instead, it’s about actively recognizing and appreciating even the smallest of moments, the ones that touch us in simple but powerful ways.

I’m grateful for the big things, of course—my family, health, friends, and the gift of recovery. But I also find gratitude in the quieter details of each day, like:

  • The warmth of the sun breaking through on a chilly day,

  • The pleasure of a perfectly brewed cup of coffee,

  • Cozy slippers and a blanket,

  • The feel of sand between my toes and the sound of the ocean.

I’m also thankful for my career in education. Decades of seeing young minds grow and helping to foster a love for learning have been incredibly rewarding. There have been challenges, but I find deep meaning in the impact, whether in the creativity of teachers or the spark of curiosity in students.

When it comes to family, my heart overflows. My husband, children, and I have weathered life’s highs and lows together, building a bond that has carried us through grief, joy, disappointments, and the unique challenges of recovery. Addiction has touched us all, and each of us has played a part in this journey, offering support, understanding, and strength to one another. It hasn’t always been easy, but through the heartache, we’ve found resilience and healing that have made us stronger and more connected. I am grateful every day for the family we’ve become, bound not just by love, but by the shared experiences that have shaped us.

My husband’s steady patience grounds us during difficult times, while his enthusiasm for planning new adventures, whether through travel or a unique meal, adds moments of joy and excitement to our lives. My daughter, with her lightness and laughter, reminds us to savor life’s small joys, calling to share quick stories or a funny photo, like one of her Halloween costumes. And my son, with his quick wit and empathy, reaches out “just because,” a simple gesture that means the world to each of us. We support and uplift one another, building connections that reflect our shared journey. These bonds remind me of the resilience we’ve built together, a resilience I cherish deeply.

Sometimes, gratitude feels hard to reach. There are days that seem dark, where it’s difficult to find something to appreciate. In these moments, I remind myself of the strength that gratitude can offer, even if it’s something as small as a few minutes of peace. On harder days, it’s okay to feel a range of emotions, recognizing that even in darkness, there are glimmers of light waiting to be found, which can be a powerful reminder.

It’s important not only to feel gratitude but also to express it. Sharing our appreciation makes it real and lifts the spirits of those around us. As poet William Arthur Ward once said, “Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.” When we express our gratitude, we help it grow, creating a ripple effect of positivity.

I am also deeply grateful for my work at Woodhaven. Being part of Woodhaven has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life. It is more than just a place of work—it’s a community where support, healing, and resilience come together to help young boys and their families navigate the path to recovery. Each day, I am inspired by the strength of the individuals I work with and the deep commitment to making a difference in their lives. At Woodhaven, I witness firsthand the power of compassion and how, through shared purpose and hope, we can help young people create new futures.

As we move forward, may gratitude become more than a seasonal theme. I invite you to join me in this journey—let’s make it a part of each day, illuminating our lives with appreciation for all we have, the big, the small, and even the unexpected.

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