Marie Kondo’s method for tidying up seems to be every where and is the source of inspiration for today’s gratitude prompt:

My Experience:

This particular prompt moved me, so it seemed important to share. At first I wasn’t sure if I should post a prompt like this because the answer seemed to push materialism which is the opposite of what I’m trying to achieve through this practice. Focused on my good fortune, it became apparent just how abundant my life was in countless small ways.

I don’t say this to be a ray of sunshine or, worse, to brag about what I have but instead to honor the good fortune I have been blessed with and hope it inspires you to do the same and to, perhaps, even give back more to those who aren’t as fortunate.

I digress. When I thought about a recent purchase that sparked joy, I kept coming back to the food in my fridge, freezer, and pantry. Some purchases are more recent than others, but I cannot describe to you how much joy it brings me to be able to feed myself without worry or shame.

These items might be physically small but contribute immense happiness in my life because there was a long time when celebrating food always inspired a certain degree of shame and, as of the last few years, a crippling amount of anxiety (which is an old habit that is dying hard but is weakening every day — thank you, brain!), but I’ve come to understand that nourishing the body is one of the greatest gifts I’ve been able to learn to give myself. It’s a complex thing, today, to drown out the flood of messages we’re sent about how much to eat of what and when, but trusting in the feedback of my own body is one of the many joys I take when I look into my fridge or step foot into a grocery store.

Moral of the Story:

Simple purchases can spark joy if we pause long enough to notice them. I’m grateful to have been able to do that today. 🤗 Here’s to hoping this challenge is serving you just as well too!