It all returns to gratitude.

It is like wiping your shoes at the door, taking that step in, and leaving the word’s stress at the door.

Opening your arms to the hugs and smiles you left just a few hours before.

Each sunrise, followed by putting the day to rest.

The sand between your toes, and the first flush of water on your feet that makes you gasp and giggle.

Cool water hitting your face after being outside all day.

An afternoon nap after taking in the day’s sun at the beach.

A hug from someone you adore.

The first line in a book – and with some dedication – the last.

Calm after a day’s work.

Then other simple pleasures –

Waking and having strength in your feet as they feel the weight of your body.

Breathing with ease.

A song, a rhythm that fills your heart and chest; inhaling, raising your shoulders to allow the harmonies to stretch and find their own way.

Letting go of what was and opening your heart to the new.

The stillness and silence within.

As I age it seems gratitude simply reappears, without resistance.

It collapses all my worries and expands all my hopes – like a snap.

Like I never had to ask.  Like I never had to guess because it was already there –

It is a little corny, I suppose.  Sometimes corny is good.  I can take it.

I mean, who knew?

I sure the hell didn’t.