Gratefulness as the Foundation of Practice

Gratefulness as the 
Foundation of Practice 
by Rabbi Shefa Gold

By waking up in gratefulness, we set the tone for the day; we step in to a particular groove; we open our eyes in search of both the obvious and the hidden blessings that God has set before us.

Gratefulness, beginning in surprise, gradually expands into a sense of wonder. When you are in a state of wonder, you remember what a miracle this life is. You are able to actually enjoy the absurdities; you let yourself be astounded by the enormity of Creation; your mind is blown by synchronicities, coincidences and a glimpse of the infinite. Then your heart opens. From a state of wonder it's impossible to judge another or commit a crime against this amazing Creation.

Gratefulness, beginning in surprise, expanding into wonder, gradually grows into generosity as we look for ways to respond to this gift of life that we are given. Our eyes are opened to the suffering around us and we realize that "we" are not separate from "them"; we are all a part of this gorgeous tapestry...and as even one thread unravels, the whole pattern is diminished. We stop judging one another and start serving each other. We look for ways to give, in response to how much we have received. And each one's gifts are acknowledged as precious and unique.

(Please go here for the entire article: http://www.gratefulness.org/readings/shefa_gold.htm.)

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One regret dear world that I am determined 
not to have when I am lying on my deathbed
is that I did not kiss you enough.

- Hafiz of Persia