Ariana Porter

I would like to spend more time reflecting on my own personal accomplishments, both big and small. I so often put pressure on myself for not being at a certain level, or being an expert on a subject, or even allowing myself to fail at something. I am trying to remind myself that there is nothing wrong with being a beginner in something or not executing something perfectly on the first try. I think this is a common habit many of us have, especially during our studies and careers. We all start somewhere and the experiences we have during these times are specific in how we grow as individuals. Stop comparing and start recognizing your own accomplishments for how they are unique to you.

I am grateful for the birds, the trees, the rivers, the soil, the wind, the rain, the sunset and sunrise, and all that which these things provide to the natural processes of the Earth. All of these natural gifts remind us of our connection to the natural world.

Cultivating a sense of gratitude as individuals and as a society can be characterized by the examples of our appreciation of the natural world, of our local communities, and of our family and friends. There are many things that we show gratitude for, changing between each individual, but when we practice appreciation we are also actively engaging in the betterment of its wellbeing. Through the appreciation of nature, some may develop the sense of obligation to limit their own impact on environmental issues. Others may show appreciation to their local communities by buying from small businesses or volunteering at local organizations. Showing gratitude for one's own friends and family instills a sense of moral obligation to protecting their wellbeing and reminding them how much they mean to you. Although just examples, all of these can exhibit how we carry out our own sense of moral obligation through the practice of gratitude.

While on one of my hikes, I saw budding plants as spring has arrived and an Abert's squirrel hop from one tree down to the next, I heard the singing of birds and rustling of trees, the smell of pine, and the touch of a fuzzy purple plant found along the trail.

While exercising I could video chat with a friend and do the workout together. Not only would we both encourage each other, but we would be spending time together in a period where that is only possible to do so virtually.

When you spend your money on food that contributes to the betterment of your health, such as whole fruits and vegetables from a local farmer rather than the supermarket's processed counterparts, you are actively building a strong and healthy body. Fill your body up with junk and you will pay for it down the line in the form of medical bills.