Whatever is pleasing... think about these things

During Lent I am aiming to be more grateful and to see the gifts of God in all that I am surrounded by. Here is my visual and written account of gratitude for today.

I am grateful for a city filled with flower shops, and for flowers in mason jars and tiny shot glasses that former roommates left behind.

I am grateful for street finds of globes and silly things that have been on my wish list forever, appearing in my life at no cost to me. 

I am so very grateful for my dog Ella, who ran over a mile with me tonight (a feat for a dog with short little legs), and I am grateful for my younger sister who gave Ella a sock monkey for Christmas (it might be her favorite toy!).

I am grateful that I live in a city with clean water and I am able to connect with organizations that want to help others have clean water (Do Good Lab).

I am grateful for a job that allows me to help people pursue the best for themselves and transition out of poverty. 

I am grateful for sunny days and the ability to ride my bike to work.

I am grateful for new friends and growing relationship.

I am grateful for community and places of welcome. (Both City Church and Eucharist are amazing sources of both for me.)

I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in crafting up a wonderful DIY wedding for an amazing couple! (J & N, I love you!)

More than all of this, I am grateful for seasons of my life intended to remind me to reorder my priorities.

"Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and receivedand heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you."
- Philippians 4:4-9