The way we perceive most of the events that happen in our lives is what shapes how we feel about them much more than the event itself.  An experience of gratitude is one of the most effective ways of perceiving God’s abundant grace and getting in touch with our soul. When we can be in touch with our soul, we begin to eavesdrop on the thoughts of the universe and feel connected to everything in creation. We can embrace the wisdom of uncertainty and sense a whole new field of infinite possibilities.  

Gratitude is a fullness of heart that moves us from limitation and fear of scarcity to the expansion and love of God’s abundance. When we appreciate something in our heart, our ego moves out of the way. We can’t have our attention on ego and gratitude at the same time.

Contemplative gratitude is an entirely different way of appreciating God’s creation and has the power to move us beyond mere ideology and dualistic thinking. Mature faith can help lead us to some form of prayer, meditation, or contemplation to balance out our usual calculating mind. Trust me, it is major transformation, and our practice of gratitude in all things will begin to rewire our egocentric responses.

The goal of contemplative gratitude is not about success in anything other than the transformation of our own life perspective. The only people who pray well are those who keep praying! In fact, continued re-connecting is the objective of prayer and meditation, not merely occasional consolations that we may experience.  You are invited to join me and others on November 16^th for Prayer Lab where we will explore ways that we can practice gratitude and prepare ourselves for the upcoming holiday season.

David Cagle