I am writing this post on Canadian Thanksgiving weekend.
Having written last week about the importance of energy as an increasingly valuable currency, it seems appropriate to consider gratitude this week as one source of that energy.
So much has been written about the power of gratitude that I have been reluctant to type these words. How can I possibly contribute to that conversation without sounding cheesy?
Then a slide from one of my presentations on a different topic catches my eye: “Knowing does not reap the benefits of doing.” Knowing about the importance of gratitude is not energizing. Experiencing and expressing gratitude is.
So today in that spirit, I will not write about gratitude but instead will express it.
I am also thankful for the transformative impact of the organizations and individuals I support. The work they do matters, and by extension therefore so does mine. I appreciate having meaningful work to do that makes a difference in people’s lives.
I appreciate working with talented, interesting people from all over the world. I never want to become jaded to the marvel of often being on Zoom calls with colleagues from several continents and dozens of countries every week.
That global breadth shows up in specific human form. There are hundreds of unique individuals whom I know by name who enrich my work by bringing their distinctive selves into it. Many of you reading this post fall into that category. Please know that I am grateful for the time you take to read my writing, the diverse perspectives you contribute to my understanding of the world, and the trust you give me by allowing me to hold space in rooms on your behalf, moving issues and relationships forward that are deeply important to you.
In my work, I am thankful for exposure to a wide range of issues and challenges. My current project list includes collaborating with leaders in higher education, developmental services, environmental law, faith-based community building, anti-poverty activism, system-wide wellbeing, local neighbourhood-level engagement, personal growth and a dozen other issues. As someone who values both variety and learning, I am deeply grateful for work that is never boring.
I also recognize that choice is another powerful currency, and the fact that I have a lot of it is another example of my privilege. I appreciate being able to shape my work life. Even more than that, I appreciate that many of you have exercised your choice in selecting to work with me. I am honoured by that.
I have countless other things for which to be thankful — health, family, friends and abundance in every area of my life. But for today, it has been energizing to express work-related gratitude. What we feed grows. It is my hope that you will nourish your own spirit of thanksgiving and in turn be energized by it. Knowing you should isn’t nearly as effective.
