Laughter and Gratitude

It was just one moment – one extraordinary, fleeting moment in a weekend with more than any weekend’s fair share of extraordinary moments. Captured in a slightly blurry photograph, this moment was peace and happiness and laughter induced by some ridiculous joke my brother was making. All too often moments like these pass by without notice or any special awareness. But these are the times that matter – the quiet, relaxed, joyful flashes of the meaningful. In a year characterized by painful moments and too many tears, this picture reminds me to not take for granted the times I can smile and to appreciate the people in my life who make me laugh. This week, take time to notice and be grateful for the wonderful moments.

Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world. — John Milton