Midway through Veganuary, my month without refined sugar, alcohol or meat of any kind, people started asking me a thought-provoking question: What are you going to do in February?
Truth to tell, I looked at the January experiment as a one-and-done proposition.
But the reality is that going public with my personal initiative created an expectation that the next month would bring a new challenge. Veganuary had become part of my schtick. Traffic on my blog tripled whenever I updated my progress.
A friend suggested running a mile every day, the pledge for 2016 espoused by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg. Or how about committing to 10,000 steps a day?
I like both those ideas. But I ultimately decided to take the advice of my friend and neighbor Anne. Every day in February, I will write a thank you note expressing my gratitude to an individual who has made a difference in my life.
No email, no texting. It has to be on paper. And it must be written in my own hand. As a stationery nerd, I see the value in this. And a fountain pen. I am all in.
I’ve been practicing mindful gratitude since 2008, starting each day with three words: “Thank you, Lord.” In the past year, I’ve established a new habit, adding three specific things I am grateful for that day.
This regimen was inspired by my friend Susie, who began her trio of thanks when she was able to retire early, thanks to a sweet package from her former employer.
Coming up with three timely items for the gratitude list is harder than it seems. On most days, Susie says she checks one off with a standard thank you: “I am so glad I am not married to Chuck any more.”
Because I overthink, my list often takes longer than it should. Are my thoughts germane, reflecting the past 24 hours? Sure, no one can hear me; but am I speaking plainly? And did I miss anything?
During Veganuary, a standard refrain was expressing thanks for staying on course.
Today, the first day I am free to indulge in the full spectrum of food and drink, the editor of a glossy wines and spirits magazine contacts me. Can I take on an assignment on tequila cocktails?
Yes, I can.
A coincidence? We know better.
And so I begin February. Even with leap year, I already am wishing there were more than 29 days in the month. Because there are so many people to thank.
I have delivered my first handwritten note, to my neighbor Anne. Thanks for a great idea!
