"In our daily lives, we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but the gratefulness that makes us happy." ~ Albert Clarke

As I started to reflect on this quote, the bamboo finger trap came to mind. Why? What's the connection? I wondered. Do you see one? I remembered how the woven strips tightened when I tried to pull my fingers out of the cylinder. Do you remember feeling caught in its grip? Release came only when we relaxed our fingers and moved them toward the center, which expanded the cylinder and created free space for our fingers to move away. 

I see a similarity between fingers becoming trapped in the grip of the bamboo strips and how we can feel caught in the grip of dark thoughts and heavy feelings. During such times it becomes hard to experience the gratefulness that leads to joy. So, while today's precept is simple and true. It's not always easy. 

For those times, let's remember that release is possible. Expanding our circumstances is do-able. Becoming freed, experiencing gratitude, feeling joy, and loving life are all obtainable. 

It may not be as simple and easy as getting out of the finger trap. Although, sometimes it is. And for the times we need assistance, help is available. Comfort and divine guidance are near too. May we give kind, wise, and loving care to ourselves and each other today. And may we readily experience the gratefulness that leads to joy.

Truly,
Charlene