When we begin to hold our markers for success in concepts like interconnectedness and kindness,
when we place our highest value on each other, our children and our relationships,
then our human spirits soar.
~James Arano
when I ask, I am open….
inquiry for today~ who is willing to open?
Gratefulness has three steps: not missing the opportunity, appreciating the opportunity,
and using or enjoying the opportunity. By this method we come fully alive, full of joy,
which is what we are all longing for.
~David Steindl Rast
Make Believe Boutique 
Wonderful! Gratitude is a soul quality; a mark of the soul. The ego may try to simulate gratitude, but it can’t keep it up for long, because it’s an act, a bargaining chip — I’ll be nice and grateful to you as long as what I’m receiving in exchange exceeds how much gratitude I have to pretend to have.
Gratitude increases in proportion to the amount of exposure to divine influences we allow ourselves (divine influences, meaning sacred writings, scriptures, inspired commentaries, contemplation, Truth, objectivity, unbiased self-observation).
Gratitude is an inherent characteristic of the soul. As soul increases and ego and ego chatter decreases in us, gratitude — praise, worship, reverence, thankfulness, appreciation, savoring, mindfulness — all increase in us.
Namaste & Buen Camino
This speaks to your reverence and soul expression. So appreciated. May we become quiet enough to hear our soul speak. Thank you John:) Many heartfelt wishes to you for a peaceful year.