Each breath is a miracle
Exercise gratefulness for the transformative power that shapes our journeys
DECEMBER HAS BEEN A PARTICULARLY STRANGE month for me because I'm not in the highest of my spirits, but we don't have the privilege to give up. None of us.
We all face challenging moments in our lives. Sometimes, the idea of experiencing life is not easily discernible from some particular challenges, such as going through the anxiety and pain of a serious disease. At the same time no one is dismissed from a certain load of suffering, I refuse to view life as an experience defined by hardship. Life is too broad and too complex, being also composed of so many infinitely beautiful things, to be summarized only to its unfortunate side.
As you know, I'm writing directly from Ukraine in the winter of 2023. My country is now brutally occupied by a foreign power and it's not necessary to go into details of how it affects a Ukrainian man of 36 years old. However, instead of feeling vulnerable, I wake up every day with a sensation that I have two duties: one with my nation, other with myself very personally.
It may seem trivial, but I consider that it's important to celebrate the life I have, with all the constraints attached. Having a life is precious enough, simple and absolute at the same time, so we need to dedicate time for reflection and gratitude amidst the bustle of our permanent worries.Β
That in the end is not exactly permanent. Pretty much like ourselves.
This quest for a more meaningful life starts with a simple morning routine. An attempt to keep the focus on mindfulness and thankfulness. The first step involves a conscious decision to set boundaries, in my case principally to avoid excessive connections with negative news and the internet in general. Knowing myself better, I've acknowledged my oversensitivity to details regarding evil, intolerance and madness. Avoiding them is not exactly an intentional choice, but a medical advice. It unfortunately keeps me distant from social media and some wonderful friends I've made along my journey there, but anyway frees up space for real life activities and sets a positive tone for the day.
The second part of the routine is a gratitude exercise. An understanding of how incredible is the gift of having a life. Taking a moment to breathe, meditate, and soak in the essence of existence serves as a grounding force, reminding me that each breath is a miracle. Central to this practice are daily affirmations, expressions of thankfulness that ground me and shape my mindset to the things that really matter and set a positive tone for the day ahead.
I try, as much as I can, to appreciate the beauty of every day, finding peace in the colors of every sunrise, which I see as the essence of a fulfilling life, as well as showing appreciation to the various individuals who have been helping to shape the fabric of my life. Always remembering love and support, pointing out the power found in real relationships.
I invite you, my dear reader, to keep an expression of gratitude for the inner courage and strength that empowers us to face lifeβs challenges. Embrace and appreciate opportunities that come in our way, recognize their role in our growth and to positive change. Let's exercise gratefulness for the transformative power that shapes our journeys, wherever we are.
At every new day, be thankful for the gift of living this new day. Give thanks to the gift of health, and recognize it as the cornerstone of a vibrant life. Be grateful for the beauty that envelops us in nature, art, or meaningful experiences, and enjoy every fleeting moment of happiness.
In a world full of distractions, being grateful is my anchor. It is not about strict adherence to rules; rather, it is a personal journey to a more intentional and beautiful life. By embracing gratitude as a daily practice, I have discovered a deeper sense of contentment.
I share this journey in hopes that it can inspire you especially in those moments of life that nothing seems to be alright. It's not that everything is alright. But remember that there's always a reason to find grace in life, even when this reason is so simple as the fact we are alive.
Ukraine, winter of 2023.
Hi Vik,
This latest addition by you is best described, in my opinion, as words to live by. Itβs awesome.
Iβm relieved you have found ways and things that give your life meaning and purpose in the chaos.
I miss your friendly presence on social media, but I understand the importance of keeping a positive outlook.
The internet has some very bad elements.
Stay safe and thank you.
Much love,
Ben