Glimmers and Gratitude - Written By: Samantha Coleman MA, LPC

Glimmers are small, positive moments or experiences that occur during the day.  These microevents can elicit calm, peace, and wonder in our often chaotic lives.  A glimmer can be the warm sun on your face, a hummingbird, your favorite song, enjoying your morning cup of coffee, or being reminded of a success. In order to notice these glimmers, we must shift our focus to the here and now, practicing mindfulness.  By being present, we can start to calm our mind and body.  When I think of a glimmer, I am reminded of the movie American Beauty.  In an iconic scene, the character Ricky Fitts, is watching a video he recorded of a plastic bag, swirling in the wind.  He says "sometimes there's so much beauty in the world, I feel like I can't take it, and my heart is just going to cave in."  There is beauty all around us; we just need to notice. 

Glimmers can help to jumpstart the practice of gratitude.  Gratitude is considered a positive emotion that involves recognizing and being thankful for the good in your life (no matter how small).  Gratitude can mean acknowledging the goodness and effort involved in everyday tasks.  People who practice gratitude have stronger relationships, less stress, are happier, and have more peace in their lives.  Random acts of kindness, showing appreciation, writing down something good that happens each day, and noticing a glimmer are ways to practice gratitude.  Instead of being upset you are doing the dishes again, practice gratitude.  Be thankful you have hot water, soap, dishes, and food to eat.  Notice how the hot water feels. Does the soap smell pleasant?  Pair this task with your favorite music or a podcast.  Try incorporating gratitude and glimmers into your everyday life and see if you notice a positive difference.