Mo Karnage

Gratitude 

I am thinking this week, in a stereotypical fashion, of things for which I am grateful. I am making a list, because I lurve lists!!! (Insert derpy face here)

• Friends who are good at staying in touch and do so even though I am unworthy and do not reciprocate well
• That inkling of uncertainty creeping into the minds of police and soldiers who are doing oppressive things
• The patience to discuss political issues with people who I disagree with, with the hope to find points of unity and educate along the way
• Water defenders at Standing Rock doing vital work I can not do at this time, fighting against the Dakota Access Pipeline
• Chulainn, my 3 month old baby, who is just so sweet and easy and amazing and has changed my whole world
• My partner David who is willing to navigate this crazy world with me
• Indoor plumbing and similar amenities we take for granted but are not available to many people in the world. Despite my stress and how hard chores feel, I have it easy compared to so many and should always be grateful. I think about Syria, Libya, Afghanistan, Iraq, India, Egypt right now in particular.
• People who let me bring my baby to jobs 
• Plants and their medicine, and the knowledge I have gained this year about their uses which will help me keep myself, my family, and my community happy and healthy

Life has been stressful. Money, custody, divorce, marriage, jobs, moving, chores, broken vehicles, etc. Are some of the things I have to deal with in my life right now. Reflecting on the things for which I am grateful helps me gain necessary perspective and think more optimistically. I have a very good life and I am thankful for it and for all the people who are a positive part of my life.

I have several friends who make a practice of stating 3 things they are grateful each day, and I love that practice! I would encourage anyone who is feeling low to try this. It helps me a lot and seems like a healthy thing to do.