Gratitude is the “canary in the coal mine” of my spiritual life, which is inextricably interwoven with my family life and sometimes, more than I’d like to admit, with my work life as well. And when my canary is singing and I find myself gliding on the jet-stream of life, there is a good chance you will also find me pausing to feel the sunlight on my face and appreciate the complex beauty of the road I tread, thinking of all the kindness and generosity of those who helped me get to that place in life and probably on the verge of tears of some kind.
To that end, my daily work is to seek that gratitude. I have come to understand that what served me yesterday may not serve me today and that my path to peace changes each day and over time. I have collected many keys over the years to unlock the door inward – from journaling and reading to scrolling old baby pictures of my children, from putting my hands in the dirt, gardening and watching things grow, as well as staying on top of my sleep and calories.
While these tools and techniques ebb and flow with efficacy, the one thing that has never faded- the most potent source I have to scratch the itch in my chest, is to focus on making the world a more safe, more just and more beautiful space for others. This work, in service of the greater good, remains, daily and over time, my deepest source of fulfillment and gratitude.
Yosi Sergant is a movement entrepreneur working at the center of arts, culture, and justice. @a35mmlife
