As war rages in Ukraine and in smaller regions all around the world, as the US surpasses 600 mass shootings for the year, and as stories abound with the unfathomable cruelty humanity inflicts on itself and all other beings, it is sometimes hard to find even one thing to be grateful for. The energy of anger, hate, and violence embraces and infuses this world, and for those who struggle to find meaning and purpose, it lies heavy and impenetrable.

I have to be especially mindful these days to avoid being overwhelmed by the negative energies of the world and to find those pockets of positive and healing that sustain me. Although my list is a little shorter this year, my gratitude for each is magnified.

1. My kitties, my girls, Lottie and Macie.
2. My mom.
3. The birds that visit my feeder and table every day.
4. The squirrels and chipmunks and other beings that come to my window, giving thanks for the small bits of food I leave for them.
5. The trees that make up the woods and the pathways in those woods that lead to nowhere.
6. Water–drinking water, lakes, rivers, oceans, rain.
7. Genuine friends and family.
8. The businesses I own that allow me to use my talents to help others.
9. A job for a company that treats and takes care of employees like family.
10. People who base their decisions on and live their lives with tolerance and compassion for ALL beings.
11. My animal guides–polar bear, elephant, raven, arctic fox, dragonfly, bumblebee (but truthfully, all animals are my guides).
12. A quiet and safe home.
13. Books.
14. Buddhist teachings.
15. Blue skies and warm, sunny days.