21 December – Noticing What’s Already Here

In a few days, many of us will receive presents from loved ones — things that, on the whole, we’ll be grateful for.But before that moment arrives, let’s spend these next few days tuning into something quieter: the everyday things already present in our lives that deserve our gratitude.

Each evening, take a moment to write down one thing from that day you’re thankful for.It might be something big and obvious, or something small that usually passes unnoticed. What matters is not the size of the thing, but the attention you give it.

Once you’ve chosen it, write a couple of sentences explaining why you’re grateful for it — how it made you feel, what it offered you, or why it mattered in that moment.

This simple practice helps us appreciate the parts of our lives we often gloss over without truly acknowledging them. Writing, rather than just thinking, slows us down and sharpens our focus, allowing gratitude to sink in more deeply.

Today, I’m grateful for…

Today I’m grateful for the little bit of sunshine I felt on my face this morning. When I stepped out at 9am, on this quiet Sunday morning, I felt the warmth of the sun on my skin — a small but grounding way to start the day.

Later, when I sat at the table having breakfast around 11am, it happened again. A sudden gap appeared in the clouds and golden sunshine streamed through, landing directly on my face. It felt like a gentle reminder to pause and notice what’s right in front of me.

I’m also grateful that today marks the longest day of the year. From tomorrow, the nights begin to shorten and the days slowly grow longer again — a hopeful turning point and a comforting reminder that light always returns.