The Grace Of Gratitude...

We’re already halfway through the year—can you believe it?

And if you’re like me, you’ve probably had a mix of wins and worries, progress and pending things.

This Sunday was mid-year thanksgiving in my church, and we were encouraged to dress up, come with our dancing shoes, and hearts full of gratitude. The atmosphere was electrifying.

It was a joyful reminder that gratitude is a choice. A powerful one.

Yet, let’s be honest—sometimes it’s hard to feel grateful when there are things in your life that feel stuck or not going as planned. It’s so easy to focus on what’s not working: the job that didn’t come, the relationship that’s strained, the goal you haven’t hit. And when we do that, it drowns out all the other beautiful things that are working.

So, this week I’ve been intentionally shifting focus. Infact, I did a little digging/research—and guess what? Science actually backs up what we’ve always been told:

Gratitude literally heals. Mentally. Emotionally. Even physically.

• People who regularly practice gratitude have better moods, lower anxiety, and even improved brain function.

• It helps you sleep better and reduces stress.

• And on a physical level? It strengthens your immune system and lowers inflammation.

Just imagine—something as simple as saying “thank you” or noticing what’s working can change your internal chemistry!

It reminded me of something my Pastor said that really stuck:

It’s not happiness that makes us grateful... it’s gratitude that makes us happy. — Pastor Bolaji Idowu

So this week- BE GRATEFUL, I’m encouraging you to try something simple but powerful:

Write down 3 things you’re grateful for—every day. Big or small, serious or silly—write it down.

Then go a step further: share it. With a friend. With your partner. Or LOUD IT on social media!

Let gratitude be contagious. There’s a lot we may still be trusting for—but even now, there’s so much to be thankful for.

So Pause. Reflect. And give the good stuff the loudest mic.

With a grateful heart,

Omowunmi