“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.“

Colossians 4:2

Some words on Gratitude Practice by Christine Aroney-Sine

“When I wake up in the morning I make a cup of tea and sit quietly in my sacred space for a few minutes enjoying the early morning sounds and sights. I close my mind, take a few deep breaths in and out, and recite what has become my morning mantra:

Thank you God for the gift of life

A wondrous gift so freely given. 

I continue to sit quietly with eyes closed, breathing slowly in and out, receiving that gift and allowing the wonder of it to sink down deep into my soul. Sometimes a list of gratitudes flows out—thankfulness for breath, sight, a warm house, a loving husband, a silly dog, and food on the table each day. Some days the list seems endless. On others nothing comes to mind and I sit content in the presence of God knowing that if nothing else the gift of life provides me with the opportunity to appreciate the glory of God. 

When I sense my time of quiet contemplation is over I open my eyes ready for the day. If I feel prompted, I jot down what I felt thankful for that morning and end with the words:

Thank you God for you.”