Honesty

This #thankyouthursday, I am grateful for honesty.

I was feeling bad this morning because it wasn’t even 8 a.m. and I was already having a not-so-great day, which meant I was struggling to come up with a topic for #thankyouthursday, and then I was feeling guilty for struggling to think of what I’m grateful for since I’m very aware that objectively I am awash with blessings.

But subjectively, I am having a hard time. I have a lot on my personal plate, and as a highly sensitive person, I’m also affected by concerns beyond my immediate stressors—the suffering of friends with sick parents; the pain of the destruction of New Orleans, where several of my colleagues live(d); the horrific new legislation in Texas, where I grew up.

I am reeling and roiling with feelings, and none of those feelings are gratitude.

Except.

As I was considering this undesirable situation, so unfitting for #thankyouthursday, I remembered the best thing I know about gratitude: You don’t have to feel grateful.

Which is to say, honesty is what matters most.

I can say I’m grateful that I’m upset and out of sorts. I’m grateful I have no idea how to right all the wrongs of the world. I’m grateful I feel helpless to resolve my interpersonal conflicts.

I’m grateful, I’m grateful, I’m grateful. And that’s the truth.

What’s true today for you?

Love > fear,
Christina

p.s. I’m also grateful for Past Me, who wrote a post about how to lift your spirits in three simple steps. I’ve just confirmed that the suggestions work!