“We are worried and distracted by many things.” This is a line from the Confession which we make every Sunday at the beginning of Sunday service. Sometimes these words become so automatic that we lose the real message.

For the last month or so, these words have caught my attention in such a way that I could not avoid thinking about their meaning in my life. This has been an unusual summer for me. Certainly not one of my choosing and I have let worries and concerns distract me from my relationship with God.

How do I get back to that calm sense of security that I have when everything is in balance? Recently, I read an article in the local newspaper entitled “Joy doesn’t depend on life’s events.” (Ocala Star Banner, July 6, 2019). I was moved by the message and felt that it was a good one to share with you and to begin to practice myself.

Writer Janet Griffin relates the story of two women experiencing trauma and tragedy in their lives and how their practice of gratefulness brings about “the happiness that doesn’t depend on what happens.” I am not going to repeat the whole piece. It is an inspiring story.

I do want to repeat the simple suggestions for increasing the gratitude level of our lives. Benedictine Brother, David Steindl-Rast teaches the “5-3-1” method. Take 5 minutes every day to sit quietly with God. There will be other noises in your head, but open your heart, breathe quietly and focus on your breathing. Every day write down three things which you are grateful for. Every day do one act of kindness.

Our God, who loves us unconditionally, wants each of us to have “the happiness that doesn’t depend on what happens.” The active work of building a personal relationship with God will bring that happiness, no matter what storms wait for us or sunny days, for that matter.

For more information about gratefulness practices, visit Br. David’s website: http://www.gratefulness.org.

Terri