We were recently in Japan for two weeks for Nate’s black belt karate exam. The seminar itself was only 4 days, but the days were long ang the training intense. Nate and Lei both did great and enjoyed being around friends, while immersed in a completely different culture.

During the seminar we stayed at a very beautiful and ancient temple. We slept on mats on the floor and shared every meal together, served by our kids. We were so excited throughout our stay, that we never took the opportunity to walk the entire property, but saw many tourist come through.

On the last day, we ran up to the hill and tried to take a couple pictures of the place. It was breathtaking, and I was immediately filled with regret. We had stayed here for the last 4 days and missed the opportunity to explore the beauty that’s immersed us. It got me thinking. Is it not often, that we overlook the beauty in front of us, while focused on all the other things happening around us?

Which brings me to gratitude.

I am so grateful for all the beauty I encounter through my children every day. They are still at the age where they wake up, unfazed by worries ( unless their bed heads are too out of control 😂). Morning gratitude, or any time of the day gratitude, is a tool I’ve been using on days when I struggle to feel good about the world. I can’t fix everything, but I can definitely be grateful for all the things that bring me joy.

I hope you are able to find joy throughout your day. And maybe even be grateful for the things that don’t go our way.

XO