Although it may seem trite to have chosen “gratitude” for our November theme here at Mortal Muses, I’m actually quite grateful I did. Thinking about giving thanks, appreciating all I have — both big and small — really does shift my awareness and attitude. Sometimes it is hard to step back and take a look at the big picture, especially when work deadlines loom, the flu catches us by surprise and knocks us off our game for a few days, or family obligations and other to-dos pile up. But having a prompt, a nudge, a gentle reminder to go wide with our view of ourselves and our lives can be a game changer in the way we feel.

When I step back, I can see how much I love flare and how it makes me smile…

flare_rsI can revel in love being all around us if we just look for it…

hearts_rsI see the connections I’ve made and the beautiful relationships formed around a shared passion…

photog friends_rsI notice that a sincere belief in the humanity of people exists when flowers are sold on the honour system…

honour flowers_rsAnd on days when my self-critic rears her ugly head and I start playing the comparison game, gratitude reminds me that I am on my path, the only path I need to be on…

on the path_rsWhat about you? What are you finding yourself grateful for this November?

For those interested, all photos were shot on Fuji 160S 35mm film using my Canon AE-1 camera.

Meghan of Life Refocused