Br. David Steindl Rast is a Benedictine monk known for interreligious dialogue and for his writings on gratefulness. Years ago I was fortunate to attend one of his retreats. His peacefulness brought all of us to a place of reverence; and during this week-long seclusion, we re-discovered awe.
Through simple exercises and reflections, he helped us see who we are separate from titles, education, salaries, successes or failures. And as we set aside our distractions, gratefulness emerged. “The root of joy is gratefulness...It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful.” He explained.
I often think of Brother David and his reminders about appreciating the "little things of life." And, I begin my day grateful for freshly brewed coffee, a warm shower, and the duck just outside my front door....
Through simple exercises and reflections, he helped us see who we are separate from titles, education, salaries, successes or failures. And as we set aside our distractions, gratefulness emerged. “The root of joy is gratefulness...It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful.” He explained.
I often think of Brother David and his reminders about appreciating the "little things of life." And, I begin my day grateful for freshly brewed coffee, a warm shower, and the duck just outside my front door....
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