Freelancing to Freedom

John Milton said, “Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world.”

When walking in my neighbourhood, I can usually be found with headphones on, probably lost in some daydream. The other evening, however, I was walking home alone after a dinner with friends and decided to just enjoy the walk for its own sake. The temperature was perfect, a slight briskness to the air. I breathed deeply and took in all my surroundings with a smile on my face.

In that moment, I was filled with a rush of emotion I couldn’t immediately put words to. It was simply gratitude, a rare moment of perfect clarity. Everything I was grateful for in my life came rushing at me in an overwhelming instant.

By North American standards, I live a modest lifestyle. But that evening reminded me that there is abundance in the simple things (a good book or song, a glass of wine, a long chat with a friend, a walk by the river) and in the things that are so easy to start taking for granted: health, freedom, relationships, just being alive.

Despite the kind of day you’re having today, I bet there is at least one thing that you’re thankful for. Say it. Write it down. Focus on it. Don’t underestimate the power of simply giving thanks for all you have.

And while I’m sure what I’m writing today is nothing new or groundbreaking, it’s something I wanted to share. Because lately, gratitude has had such a positive impact on everything in my life, from my relationships and family life to my freelance career.

And I’m very grateful for you – thanks for reading.

This week’s goal: Take time to learn.

Song of the week: “Perth” – Bon Iver. One of my absolute favourite bands and I just got tickets to see them live in May! VERY grateful for that!

Namaste 

Rachel