It’s been awhile since I felt grateful, but it’s true that if you wait long enough joy sneaks in.

It’s been a time of losses, close and far away. I watched one friend leave behind three children at age 40. Now another friend with three children is losing her husband at age 40. Suddenly, having 40 years with my parents still alive feels like a blessing taken for granted. Memory issues seem a bit smaller. I’m grateful for less than ideal problems that still give us time.

I’m grateful for unexpected furry companions that helped fill the void of the many we lost. They are slowly pulling us out of the darkness. We took a chance on a cat from a feral colony and another chance on a foster dog and our house feels like a home again.

Thankful for family who always wait patiently until I’m ready to be nudged back into the world again. Grateful for time to grieve and heal, and welcoming arms with no questions asked.

The power of songs to take me deep into my grief, and other songs to pull me out again.

Another day, another chance, and the often overlooked opportunity to change direction at a moments notice to follow a happier path.