Smile.

Growing up, I was taught that we should be grateful for what we have, rather than focusing on the things we don’t have or what we wish we had.

For years, I’ve kept a gratitude journal. It has by no means been a continuous ritual in my life, but practicing gratefulness has played a role in shaping my perspective. The other day when I was surveying the slightly faded pages of my old journals, I noticed something. I realized that with every new experience and change in my life, the things I am grateful for have also evolved.

People look at me like I’m crazy when I say that I am grateful for my journey with Cerebral Palsy. Why? Because I wouldn’t be the person I am today without it.

Do the implications of my disorder suck sometimes? YES. Do I wish that I had the ability to jump up out of my chair and run? ABSOLUTELY. But if we are being completely honest here, there are parts of everyone’s life that truly just blow.

In the last year, I have encountered a myriad of health challenges that were definitely not on my radar. I was diagnosed with arthritis, my scoliosis has shifted, and my bladder has quit functioning normally, which has lead to catheterization and recurrent infections. I have days where I want more than anything to escape from my body. As much as I despise the ravaging beast that is trying to fight my body and test my strength, there is something quite beautiful about all of this.

I have always loved life, but I appreciate it even more now. I am grateful for my good days, and I am grateful for the things that motivate me on my not so good days.

I am grateful because life has taught me that no matter what I am going through or whatever I have to face, there is always something to smile about.

What are you grateful for, peeps?