Examen - 14
Transcript
I invite you to gently close your eyes or lower your gaze… Take a deep breath, feeling the cool air as you inhale through your nostrils, and exhale, releasing the warm air from your body… Allow yourself a moment to be fully present. Perhaps there’s something weighing on your mind, like a text message, an email, or an errand… Consider what occupies your thoughts and captures your attention. Take a moment to acknowledge these elements and their significance in your life… Inhale deeply… and with your exhale, let go of those concerns with that breath.
Now, focus on your current surroundings… Notice where you are sitting, your posture, and bring yourself back to this moment, ready to listen, receive, and engage in this time of gratitude. Reflect on your day or yesterday. Imagine waking up and preparing for your day. What did you choose to wear? What influenced your choice of outfit? How do you feel about your clothing? Walk yourself through your commute and into your workday. Did you listen to music, or sit in silence? What did you enjoy about your workday? Who did you engage with? What joyful moments arose from the people you encountered… what made you smile? How do these moments resonate with you? Celebrate those experiences… it can be challenging to honor our achievements or small joys, yet let’s make this moment a time to appreciate them. What meals did you enjoy? Did they bring you satisfaction? Now focus on your commute home, and your time before bed. What are you grateful for in that time. Did you spend time with your family or friends? Did you decompress with your favorite show or favorite hobby? What about your evening routine, can you delight in? What is something in your life that you take for granted?
Now consider what life-giving experiences you've encountered today. What are you grateful for? Reflect on the moments you’re most proud of. What went well and brightened your day? Celebrate those moments… it might be difficult to recognize our own joys and the beauty in everyday life, but let’s take this time to celebrate those moments. Where have you sensed or felt the presence of God or the Divine throughout your day?
It's essential to both celebrate the good and grieve the not so good experiences we face. We should acknowledge those frustrating moments, but not dwell on them as we practice gratitude. Take a deep breath… how can you express gratitude even in the tough or frustrating parts of your day?
Now, think about what lies ahead for you tomorrow… what hopes do you hold? What are you looking forward to? What changes and improvements do you aspire to make? Take one final deep breath… and when you're ready, open your eyes.
Thank you for sharing this reflective journey with me.
November 20, 2024
Examen: Gratitude
SUMMARY: In our busy lives, we often overlook the simple joys. Today, let's take a step back and cherish what we're thankful for.
PRESENTER: Klamesha P. Richards, MA (she/her), Associate Director, Ignatian Spirituality
Transcript
I invite you to gently close your eyes or lower your gaze… Take a deep breath, feeling the cool air as you inhale through your nostrils, and exhale, releasing the warm air from your body… Allow yourself a moment to be fully present. Perhaps there’s something weighing on your mind, like a text message, an email, or an errand… Consider what occupies your thoughts and captures your attention. Take a moment to acknowledge these elements and their significance in your life… Inhale deeply… and with your exhale, let go of those concerns with that breath.
Now, focus on your current surroundings… Notice where you are sitting, your posture, and bring yourself back to this moment, ready to listen, receive, and engage in this time of gratitude. Reflect on your day or yesterday. Imagine waking up and preparing for your day. What did you choose to wear? What influenced your choice of outfit? How do you feel about your clothing? Walk yourself through your commute and into your workday. Did you listen to music, or sit in silence? What did you enjoy about your workday? Who did you engage with? What joyful moments arose from the people you encountered… what made you smile? How do these moments resonate with you? Celebrate those experiences… it can be challenging to honor our achievements or small joys, yet let’s make this moment a time to appreciate them. What meals did you enjoy? Did they bring you satisfaction? Now focus on your commute home, and your time before bed. What are you grateful for in that time. Did you spend time with your family or friends? Did you decompress with your favorite show or favorite hobby? What about your evening routine, can you delight in? What is something in your life that you take for granted?
Now consider what life-giving experiences you've encountered today. What are you grateful for? Reflect on the moments you’re most proud of. What went well and brightened your day? Celebrate those moments… it might be difficult to recognize our own joys and the beauty in everyday life, but let’s take this time to celebrate those moments. Where have you sensed or felt the presence of God or the Divine throughout your day?
It's essential to both celebrate the good and grieve the not so good experiences we face. We should acknowledge those frustrating moments, but not dwell on them as we practice gratitude. Take a deep breath… how can you express gratitude even in the tough or frustrating parts of your day?
Now, think about what lies ahead for you tomorrow… what hopes do you hold? What are you looking forward to? What changes and improvements do you aspire to make? Take one final deep breath… and when you're ready, open your eyes.
Thank you for sharing this reflective journey with me.