October Gratitude: Bumps and Blessings

Today, I am grateful for the bumps and the blessings.

That phrase came to me following my meditation reading this morning. Yesterday, I received two vaccinations: one for COVID and the other for the flu. Despite moving my right arm a lot, as directed by the nurse, I felt a good amount of pain. I don’t mind a little pain. But this was a lot. Thankfully, an ice pack and acetaminophen made it more tolerable.

About the bumps, on my spiritual path, I’m reminded to be grateful for them. Of course, some are much more than bumps. Like when a loved one becomes seriously ill or when you’ve experienced abuse or injustice. It’s hard to be grateful for such things. Yet, looking over my life, my bumps, small and large, helped shape the person I am today. So I can’t resent them. Those experiences also fueled my ability to be compassionate and understanding toward others facing their hardships.

And then there are the blessings. You would think gratitude for them would come easily. But I realize sometimes we forget or overlook the most basic blessings: food on the table, a place to call home, a loving spouse, the air we breathe, and even the beautiful fall colors.

So, for October, my intention is to be grateful for both the bumps that I encounter and the blessings offered to me.

Might I suggest you hold the same intention for this month?

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