The Gratitude Checklist

Celebrating the Fourth of July could well be considered the highlight of summer. You can BBQ with friends and family, enjoy the beautiful summer evening watching fireworks, check out a local parade, and of course party. But, July 4th wouldn't be special without the significance behind it. Independence Day is a holiday celebrating the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776; claiming the United States to be a nation free from the British. This July 4th we not only celebrate 240 years of Independence, but we also honor the values that the U.S. was founded upon. The Declaration of Independence was inspired by the idea that every person has inherited rights or "self-evident truths." The original document states, "We hold these truths to be self evident; That all men are created equal; that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." 

It is so easy to forget or take what you have in life for granted, but this national holiday is a great reminder to be grateful for the range of abundance in your life. When I thought about what I was grateful for, it came down to five simple things.

1. My health and the health of those I love
Health is everything, which is one of the main reasons why I practice yoga everyday. Without optimal health, I wouldn't be able to explore all that life has the offer. 

2. A place to call home 
I take pride in my little, yet cozy home with my boyfriend and our pup, Ziggy. No matter how crazy my day is, I know that I can count on love to be waiting for me at home. 

3. My freedom
The Declaration states that each person has inherit rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Therefore, I try to take advantage of this by honoring my truth. I am proud of who I am, what I stand for, and my voice that goes out into the world each and every day.

4. My relationships 
I am so humbled to be surrounded by hilarious, inspirational, charismatic, creative, grounding, intriguing, and unique creatures. You know who you are ;).

5. The endless possibilities of life!
Each new sunrise excites me, because it is a reminder that life is limitless and it is up to you to design it. 

Now you try! What are you grateful for in your life? ​​

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