Time Passes In The Blink of An Eye, But Gratitude Lasts A Lifetime

November is probably my favorite month of the year. It is the month of my birthday and the month of one of my favorite holidays, Thanksgiving. Where I live in Philadelphia, the leaves have turned a deep crimson and the smell of pumpkin lattes and warm fireplaces fill the air. And to add to my love for November, Baby Ella Rose is celebrating her first birthday today, November 2.

I can’t believe she is one! I can’t believe how fast time flies. 

I have a lot to be grateful for in November. But just last week I shared my experience with postpartum depression after Ella was first born, including how I judged myself for not being more grateful that I overcame infertility. Unfortunately, you can’t fake gratitude. However, you can cultivate it. 

Cultivate Gratitude By Focusing On The Little Moments

As Ella grew older, I realized I had to stop judging the forest and start paying attention to the trees, the little moments. In those little moments, I was able to find authentic joy and gratitude. Going for a walk together on a sunny day. Seeing her smile for the first time (even though everyone says it’s just gas.) Singing her a pretty song. Watching her sleep peacefully (a rarity!)

And as time went on and I healed from PPD, those moments got more frequent, and bigger. Giggles, rolls, babbling, crawling, and other milestones. Holding out her arms for me to pick her up. Giving me a million dollar smile first thing in the morning when I go in to change her diaper. Resting her little head on my shoulder when she is sick because I’m her person, her safe space. And my recent favorite, blowing kisses at me - that one just melts my heart every time.

I can’t wait for what more is to come. But in some ways, Ella’s first birthday feels bittersweet. I wish I could stop time. Or slow it down. I don’t want her to grow up. I don’t want this feeling, this joy, to end.

Time Can’t Be Stopped, Only Appreciated

My mother always used to tell me that life passes in the blink of an eye. When I was struggling with something, she’d say, “don’t worry, it will be over in the blink of an eye” and when I was happy about something, she’d say, “you’d better appreciate this now because before you know it, it will be over in the blink of an eye.” Every time my brother or I would graduate from another class or celebrate another birthday, she’d smile and then, with a hint of sadness in her voice say, “It was the blink of an eye.” I know what she meant now.

Unfortunately, we cannot stop time. But we can take time out to be mindful of the good things, to savor the sweetest moments, and to bask in gratitude when we genuinely feel it. Those moments are what make life worth living. 

I’ll be sharing more about gratitude throughout the month, including specific exercises to call more of this warm fuzzy feeling into your life. Stay tuned.