Good times gone, and you missed them
What’s gone wrong in your system?
Things they bounce like a Spalding
What’d you think, did you miss your calling?

It’s so free, this kind of feeling
It’s like life, it’s so appealing
When you’ve got so much to say
It’s called gratitude, and that’s right

~Beastie Boys: Gratitude

I’ve noticed a trend in my circle recently, and it pleases me. There’s a trend of gratitude going around.

I’ve heard the word ‘thanks’ more often. I’ve witnessed public posts of appreciation. I’ve had friends reach out to say ‘you look happy’. I’ve seen strangers smile. And I’ve received unnecessary, but welcome words of apology.

There have been unexpected invitations, and last minute dinners, and impromptu hugs, and midnight text messages, and thoughtful phone calls.

At my gym there is an overwhelming recognition of personal accomplishments. At work there is more praise and acknowledgement. At home there is bliss. And none of it is coming with strings or with obligation. It seems simple and pure.

There is grace in gratitude.

In 1916, Lily Hardy Hammond wrote, “You don’t pay love back; you pay it forward.”

Today. Today! TODAY! Say thank you. Say something genuine. Apologize. Smile. Listen. Invite. Care. TODAY! Recommend. Respond. Revere.

There is great grace in gratitude. Today I am grateful, and I thank you.

Good times gone, but you feed it
Hate’s grown strong, you feel you need it
Just one thing, do you know you
What you think, that the world owes you?

What’s gonna set you free?
Look inside and you’ll see
When you’ve got so much to say
It’s called gratitude, and that’s right