The holiday season often brings a sense of urgency to focus on gratitude, but it’s not always easy, is it? Life can feel overwhelming, messy, and far from perfect. Today, I want to explore a different perspective on gratitude. What if it’s not about ignoring the challenges but embracing the tension? Gratitude isn’t one-dimensional—it’s about holding two truths at once: life is hard and beautiful. Let’s dive in together.
Gratitude is often misunderstood as choosing to only focus on the positive. But real gratitude doesn’t require us to deny the difficulties. Instead, it lives in the tension of the “and.” Life isn’t just one thing or the other—it’s both. You can experience joy and grief, progress and setbacks, beauty and difficulty, all at the same time. Living in the “and” gives us a deeper appreciation for the complexity of life.
In my own life, I see this tension every day. Parenting is exhausting and one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. Marriage is deeply fulfilling and a lot of work. Work can be overwhelming, but it also brings moments of meaning and connection. Gratitude invites us to see these layers, not as contradictions but as a fuller picture of life.
The holidays can magnify this tension. For some, it’s a season of firsts—a new family member, a fresh start. For others, it’s a season of grief, change, or solitude. Gratitude doesn’t mean glossing over these realities. Instead, it means acknowledging the complexity. It’s okay to feel joy and sadness simultaneously. It’s okay to set boundaries with family while also cherishing moments with them. Gratitude gives us the courage to embrace it all.
As we move through this holiday season, I encourage you to let go of the need for perfection and embrace the “and.” Life is messy and beautiful. It’s overwhelming and rewarding. Gratitude doesn’t erase the challenges—it helps us see the fullness of life. This season, take time to reflect on the hard and the beautiful moments and let gratitude grow in the tension of it all. Remember, it’s not about making everything perfect—it’s about being present. Merry Christmas, and I hope you find the gratitude in all of it. Let’s keep going.
00:00 Introduction to Holiday Gratitude
00:52 The Concept of 'And' in Gratitude
02:19 Gratitude in Life's Tensions
03:02 Real-Life Applications of Gratitude
05:34 Navigating Holiday Challenges
07:26 Final Thoughts on Gratitude
