Gratitude is the Antidote to Fear

It was the kind of weekend that was physically exhausting but emotionally fulfilling on another level.

My wife was home after traveling for 20 out of the last 24 nights. We enjoyed lovely weather and spent the entire weekend playing outside with our kids. We had bonfires, went swimming, grilled out, went to the playground, stopped by the farmer’s market to buy Amish butter, and gorged on donuts, smores, and brownie sundaes along the way.

Maybe I should have said it was calorically fulfilling as well?

Anyway, it was the kind of weekend you want, the kind of weekend you need. It was the kind of weekend that reminds us of what we’re working for and why. It was the kind of weekend that made me feel particularly blessed in a life full of blessings.

It is said that gratitude is the antidote to fear.

And as I swung on the hammock in the sunshine with my oldest son today, I was filled with contented wonder. And that’s when it hit me, and I realized I’ve grown a bit complacent in some areas. For one thing, I’ve neglected running and diet and much as I should, and there’s no excuse.

Then I realized I’ve been operating in safe mode again; playing to not lose instead of playing to win.

Safe harbors are great, but that’s not what boats are made for.

Tomorrow is Monday.

It could be the day that changes it all. But will it be? Or will it be just another day?

2022 is almost halfway over.

Time to get moving.