Lately, I’ve been struggling to feel gratitude. Chronic pain, emotional challenges, and the heaviness of life have made it hard to see the good. But today, as I took a moment to reflect, I realized something extraordinary: despite it all, I’m still here.
This realization sparked a deep sense of gratitude—not for the absence of hardship, but for my resilience in facing it. I’m still standing, still showing up for life, even when it feels impossibly hard. That is something worth honoring.
When I think of “still standing,” I imagine a tree—rooted, strong, and grounded. Trees withstand storms, droughts, and the changing seasons. They endure, not just to survive, but to thrive in their purpose. A tree offers a home for birds, bears fruit to nourish others, provides shade for rest, and stretches its branches outward in service to the world.
I want to be like that tree. Through my faith and my connection to my community, I hope to grow into a life that offers support, comfort, and nourishment to others. When this season of hardship passes, I want to bear fruit that blesses others, whether through love, kindness, or simply being a safe place for someone in need.
Today, I’m grateful for my resilience—for being able to withstand life’s storms and still be rooted in hope. Through God’s grace, I believe I am being nurtured for a greater purpose, one that reaches beyond myself to serve others.
If you’ve been struggling to feel gratitude, I encourage you to reflect on your own resilience. Think of the storms you’ve weathered and the strength you’ve shown. You might be surprised by the quiet gratitude and hope that blossoms when you do.
Image Credit: The featured image was created using Al tools to bring the tree metaphor to life.
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