Gratitude Is a Way of Living

Gratitude as a Lifestyle

Gratitude isn’t something I want to take lightly — it’s something I want to live in.

As a single mom, life has been full of challenges that at times felt impossible. But every step of the way, God has shown up through people — family, friends, neighbors, even strangers — who reminded me that I’m not alone.

This blog is a reflection of that. A glimpse into the gratitude I carry and hope to never lose.

Making It — Against the Odds

Gratitude to me is something I pray to never stop feeling.

I was sharing with my teens the other day about how fortunate we are to have been able to live in this home coming up on three years now! Rent in the Bay Area is ridiculous. And somehow, we have been able to make it.

Single mom. Single income. Damn near impossible… Nearly.

Because what makes it possible are all the people around us.

I could never single out just one person or one event — there are too many. That’s why I try my best to make sure the people around me know how grateful I am for them.

A single text. A phone call just to say, “I love you, ok byeeee.” It all matters to me.

And it matters that I am able to display this for my kids. Gratitude isn’t just a one-time fleeting feeling or moment. No. Gratitude is a way of living life. It’s a perspective. A choice to see the world through a different lens — your lens, your view, your heart.

God Shows Up Through People

So, I share this with my kids (keep in mind, teens who barely want to listen to you in the first place). I remind them that God has made this all possible for us. God puts the right people in our life at the right time.

·       The mentors and teachers of life.

·       The consoling friend who pulled me out of my darkness.

·       The family who reminds us how strong and fierce we are.

·       The mirror-friends who tell us the hard truths but love us anyway.

·       The ones who inspire us just by being themselves.

·       The ones who offer you opportunity so you can make ends meet.

·       It’s the best friends that make sure they maintain a relationship with my kids just so they know how loved and supported they are. (I have the most amazing friends)

·       The ones who make you feel like they love your kids as much as you do.

·       The ones who give of themselves – giving their heart. Nothing less than Angels.

The Little Things That Mean Everything

It’s the coworker who becomes more than just a coworker.
It’s the friend who brings in pan dulce, not knowing that one little act could be the happiest moment of my week.
It’s the friend who helps hang a heavy ass mirror — and takes the time to show me how. Or who help with my car because they know how much I depend on it. The friend who lends their car without a second thought.
It’s the neighbors. OMG, the neighbors! (So lucky to have amazing neighbors!)

·       The ones who help mow the lawn.

·       The ones who call when they hear a strange noise and check up on you.

·       The ones who open their homes and share food. A second family across the fence.

·       The ones who show my son how to fix things.

·       The ones who when you ask to borrow that cup of sugar, they give you the whole dang bag!

The beauty of it – they do it all without wanting anything in return. It’s a kindness we share and that’s enough.

A Community That Holds Us Up

The school community — staff and parents alike. The ones who help make sure my kids have what they need. The parents who work the care center to distribute items that have helped not only our household but for others as well. Teachers and counselors who have taken the time to gently guide my children. Counselors who understood that what my children needed was space to just be heard and lent a loving ear to hear beyond their words.  Parents who look after yours because they have the understanding of how much it is needed and how much it means.

A Front Row Seat to God’s Love

These are not coincidences. I truly believe this is God showing up through people. His love, poured out through the kindness and generosity of others.

The people who show up for us when they don’t have to — sometimes without even knowing us.

Blessed! This and so much much more. None of this — NONE of this — would be possible if it weren’t for them.

And the best part? My kids have had a front row seat to it all.

The right people. The right time. My heart is full.

Gratitude changes everything. It doesn’t mean life is perfect or easy — far from it. But it means choosing to see the blessings in the middle of the struggle, the people God sends, the small acts of kindness that hold us up when we’re tired.

If you’re reading this, I hope it reminds you to look for those moments in your own life. To thank the people who make a difference, even in small ways. And to never stop living with a heart full of gratitude. 💙 - Bela Rose