Women's Spiritual Journey discusses Appreciation

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Women's Spiritual Journey randomly picks a different character trait to discuss each month. Discussions are freewheeling, guided by the interests of the group. Generally, we think about how the quality operates in our lives (or doesn't), what it looks like, what it produces, and how we can strengthen it. Diverse backgrounds and viewpoints are celebrated: we are enriched by it! This month we're discussing...

Appreciation
Appreciation is seeing the good in life. It is recognizing the gifts that come out way and showing gratitude for them. When we express appreciation, we mirror the virtues we see in them. We perceive their positive intentions and honor them with our gratitude. Love thrives on appreciation. Intimacy grows deeper when we know we are seen and valued. As we do the spiritual work life calls us to do, it is important to appreciate our own efforts and to acknowledge our progress. We don’t dwell on the unpleasant things of life. We value the learning even in the painful times. Drinking deeply of the beauty and pleasures life offers, so we don’t waste a single day.
“For what has been, thanks! For what shall be—yes!”
~Dag Hammerskjold
The Practice of Appreciation
I look for the good in life and in people.
I freely express gratitude and admiration.
I honor my own progress.
I value the gifts in my tests.
I don’t allow myself to stay down and disappointed.
I enjoy all that life has to offer.
I feel grateful for the bounty of my life.
I am thankful for the gift of Appreciation. It fills my cup.
Questions to help us appreciate the idea!

1. See how fast you can name 5 things in your life that you appreciate.
2. What gifts have you received in the past 2 days? Which ones have you shown or expressed appreciation for? Do you want to do so for the ones you didn’t?
3. Explore the idea of mirroring another person’s virtues when you express appreciation for them.
4. How can we perceive an intention and express gratitude for it?+
5. What sorts of words and actions by others make you feel seen? What does it mean to feel seen?
6. Do you acknowledge and appreciate your own progress? Are you consistent and intentional about it?
7. How do you keep from dwelling on the unpleasant things of life?
8. How can we focus more frequently on looking for the good in people? Why is it important to do so?
9. Can you think of good that came through a test or trial you went through?