#152

I wholeheartedly believe in the notion of gratitude and feel (as shared in my 2018 blog post entitled, Gratitude) that it should infuse daily life, rather than simply once a year on the fourth Thursday in November.

This week, when many reflect and express gratitude as they celebrate the American holiday of Thanksgiving, it seems apt to share The Black Dot

In 2018, I shared my gratitude list. I continue to stand by the list, but should add that I feel even more grateful for ...

... the support of my family (they challenge my thinking, make me laugh, listen to my crazy ideas, help me when I am frustrated, hold me to high standards).

… friends near and far who support me both personally and professionally who - as with family - challenge my thinking, make me laugh, listen to my crazy ideas, help me when I struggle, hold me to high standards, accept me for who I am.

... my colleagues who implement best practice, are willing to go above and beyond, have each and every student's best interest at heart, differentiate so as to meet individual student's academic and social-emotional needs.

… my mentors who have supported and encouraged me accordingly by questioning my thinking and encouraging me to explore/discuss options, and continue to support and encourage me.

... the privileges I am afforded based on factors both within and beyond my control (being born in a country where education was valued, being literate, being in a country where university tuition fees did not exist, having more than one passport enabling freedom to travel to 95% of the world’s countries very easily).

... being in a “good place” whereby I can earn enough to support favourite charities/social justice causes, live well, save “for a rainy day” as well as for my daughter’s college days, and [admittedly now on hold with the Covid-19 pandemic] explore the world

... the gift of literacy - to be able to read for pleasure and/or to expand professional knowledge.

… the opportunity to connect with and meet with people from various cultures on a daily basis.

… the opportunity to learn something new every day.

Mindful of Ralph Waldo Emerson’s “Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude”, how do you, whether at Thanksgiving or other times in the year, show gratitude?

References:

• Author unknown (posted 2017) The Black Dot