Experiencing the gratitude of others

A short while ago I read about the hardships of a couple who had just learned their oldest child has a rare genetic disorder. After reading the heartbreaking post about the young woman's need for an immediate organ transplant, I felt a combination of worry, sadness, and fear.

But when I eventually read positive news about the girl's prognosis, my heart filled with joy- and gratitude.

From this I was once again reminded that practicing gratitude is not all about me. Yes, I knew that gratitude has its own benefits, but not necessarily isolated from everyone else. In this way we are all truly connected- your gratitude is my gratitude! 😊

What could be a more a beautiful way to develop caring, empathy, and what Buddhists refer to as metta towards fellow sentient beings?

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This post is part of the daily gratitude practice I am working to develop during 2018. You can read all about it at ByChanceBuddhism!

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May all beings be happy!

Farmer's Market

Yesterday we went for a grocery run to our local farmer's market. In contrast to the upper-middle class 'al fresco' version with perfectly arranged 'heirloom' and organic produce, the one we frequent is housed in a rather grubby-looking old grocery store. It sprawls into several sections, including housewares, clothing (yes!), local bulk and preserved goodies, bakery, meat/fish, dairy, and east Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern foods. The produce, while at times not as 'pretty' as in the chain stores, is abundant and diverse, easily accommodating many international cuisines. 

Moreover, almost all produce and perishables are available at incredibly reasonable prices, allowing us to purchase two cartloads of groceries for ~$150.00. As far as I know this is nearly unheard of in our area, and is probably one of the reasons the market is so popular. 

I want to express my gratitude for the Farmer's Market not only for the ease of finding a huge variety of food, but to be able to afford such things now that we are confined to a single income. 

What are you grateful for today?

Just a portion of our many tasty purchases!

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This post is part of the daily gratitude practice I am working to develop during 2018. You can read all about it at ByChanceBuddhism!

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May all beings be happy!