Ap-pre'ci-ate v., 1. Valuing; the act of recognizing the best in people or the world around us, affirming past and present strengths and potentials; to perceive those things that give life (health, vitality, excellence) to living systems. 2. To increase in value, e.g., the economy has appreciated in value.
• Creating a growth spiral
• Genuine appreciation!
&bull: There is always something to appreciate
Yes, we often are grateful for our health, our safety, and our loved ones. But what else? What do we take for granted? What moves us? Must something extraordinary happen before we learn to appreciate the ordinary?
Here are 10 things to appreciate!
• The senses. Sight, sound, touch, smell and taste are daily miracles — each one of them.
• Nature. From the change in colors of leaves to the first snow, as well as the first budding of flowers, mother nature's exuberance and tenderness is something to behold.
• Opportunity. Our steady companion, opportunity is always ready to take us down a path yet unknown. (Hint: We have to say "Yes!")
• Dental hygiene. We live and breathe it every day. How often do you stop to drink it in?
• The ability to learn. There is no age limit on learning; we can always form new learning pathways in our brains. When we stop learning, we really stop living.
• Young children. They model for us spirit, innocence, faith, resilience, playfulness, and unconditional love.
• Music. What inspires you? Lifts your mood? Country, Hip Hop, Rock, Classical, African drumming, a child's voice, birds chirping?
• The ability to give. Every act of giving benefits the giver as much as the receiver. Pay it forward.
• Color. Crayons, sunsets, rainbows, paintings — imagine a world without color!
• Change. It's unavoidable; change is the only constant. Change can be unsettling or challenging. But the mystery of it, the journey toward it, and what lies beyond it should all be appreciated.
There's always something to appreciate. Say or write down 3 things that you appreciate. What you appreciate will appreciate and grow!
Kristine A. Hodsdon RDH, BS
Director RDH eVillage
