gratitude

David Brooks, a New York Times columnist is my inspiration for today’s blog.

His article, “The structure of Gratitude” coincides with my friends’ visit to celebrate my birthday. His premise, “Gratitude happens when some kindness exceeds expectations, when it is undeserved. Gratitude is a sort of laughter of the heart that comes about after some surprising kindness.”  Last weekend, my heart was full of laughter.

The kindness bestowed on me was from my Austin girlfriends. Five girlfriends drove to Houston from Austin and San Antonio.  First they treated me to an afternoon spa treatment and lunch.  Later, they took me to dinner with 10 friends.  Upon arriving at the restaurant a surprise guest approached me, someone I’ve known for 45 years but never see anymore. We ate, drank, talked, laughed and took lots of pictures. Upon reflection the next day, I wondered what I ever did to deserve this kindness. My gratitude is off the charts. I also reflected that these friends knew me before and after my stroke and they don’t treat me differently.  For this I am eternally grateful and my gratitude soars.