This week I am grateful for…
186. Difficult DEI Conversations
187. Short Week
188. Crickets
189. Walk to Ice Cream Shop
190. Mangoes
#186: Difficult DEI Conversations
This week, I had the opportunity to attend a DEI workshop on the art of navigating difficult conversations. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are deeply meaningful to me, a passion that grew during my grad school years. The trainer’s depth of knowledge was impressive, and I walked away with valuable insights that I’m eager to apply. I’m truly grateful for this chance to learn and grow.
#187: A Short Work Week
Is there anything better than a holiday that shortens the work week? Here I am, writing this on a Thursday morning, and it still feels like a Wednesday! Yet, tomorrow is already Friday. This week has flown by, and I’m so thankful for the extra day of rest and the feeling of the work week moving just a little bit faster.
#188: Crickets
During my 5-day silent retreat in remote Vermont, something unexpected happened—I started hearing crickets. At first, I thought the sound was unique to Vermont, but when I returned home, they were still there, clear as ever. I figured it must be the season making them so active. Then, I had a lightbulb moment. When I asked my partner, who hadn’t been on a silent retreat, she mentioned she rarely noticed them unless she paused and really listened. That’s when it hit me: the crickets were always there; I just hadn’t been paying attention. This week, I’m grateful for mindfulness—and for crickets.
#189: A Walk to the Ice Cream Store
This week, my partner and I decided to walk to a local ice cream shop, about a 20-minute stroll from our apartment. We didn’t go for the ice cream this time but for the journey itself. Along the way, we enjoyed the beautiful views of trees, birds, and a sprawling open farm in the background. It was a simple but refreshing walk, and I’m so thankful for those small moments of peace and connection.
#190: Delicious Mangoes
A few weeks ago, in Week 31, I wrote about the delicious mangoes I bought at a local Indian market. This week, I couldn’t resist going back for more, and they did not disappoint! I’m so grateful for the little joys, like finding a fresh batch of delicious mangoes to savor once again.
What are you grateful for this week?