Learning What Matters

When you read this title, you probably think that it's a bit ambiguous. But, I'm starting to learn that what matters isn't necessarily what we would traditionally think. One thing that I've learned in the last few weeks is that gratitude is the most important aspect of actually experiencing Joy, and most of us don't do it enough. One of the classes I'm taking has given us an assignment. The assignment didn't seem like a big deal until I started thinking about it. It asks us to write a letter to someone who has dramatically affected our life, someone whom we haven't already said thank you to.

I started thinking about it and trying to figure out who I wanted to write a letter to. And as I was trying to figure it out, I realized there's quite a list. There are people on that list who are not with us anymore. So I think this week I'm going to be writing multiple letters. Part of the instructions ask us to approach these people and hand them the letter in person. The funny thing is, it's honestly a gratitude practice that is supposed to increase our levels of happiness. Scientific studies have proven that doing this works.

I've never really thought about it extensively. I have been so lucky and blessed with so many people, and there are so many who have no idea how much they have impacted me. That being said, it's a little overwhelming to think of my list and try to narrow it to just a few. So I think what is meant to be just a week of trying this may turn into a few weeks, because I believe there are multiple people that I want to reach out to.

I'm going to start right now writing that list of names. I could always be transparent, especially when I'm sober. I'm already starting to feel emotional just thinking about approaching certain individuals. But so many people have impacted me.

Here's to spending some time showing some gratitude.