This morning I am reminded of the power of two things: deep breaths, and gratitude.
It is ironic that our bodies breathe in and out for us without any conscious thought. Yet it is a powerful practice to purposefully take in a deep breath of all life and energy and to then let it all go. Just the cycle of conscious breathing can remind us of the gift of life and being alive in the present moment.
And when we are mindful of that gift of gratitude, we can more easily acknowledge all the other blessings in our lives. The food we are given each day. Our clothes. Physical shelter of a home or apartment. Friends and family. Trees, greenery, open sky, birds.
In an instant conscious breathing or gratitude can transform the landscape of our lives from yearning, fear or worry to the gift of life itself. Thank you, God.
Light and Dark: Riding the Waves 