Friday night grateful moment

ind of hard to wrap my brain around gratitude tonight, what with the events of the day.

But I am still grateful, even with this ache in my gut and lump in my throat.

I'm grateful that even when evil shows itself so absolutely, there are kind and caring people who act in heroic ways. I know stories will come out about the adults who were killed that will show many of them died trying to protect children.

I'm grateful that I know Seth is safe tonight, even as I'm painfully aware that there are families (a whole community) still in shock at the loss of their little ones.

I'm grateful for a warm home and the prospect of sleep. For my dear husband and our conversations. For the glow of the Christmas tree, for the jingle of the bell on Chief's collar, for those little oranges you can only find around the holidays. I am grateful that I have all my supplies for Christmas baking and the work party in hand, so that prepping and cooking can get underway without a lot of hassle. I'm grateful for fleecy socks in the cold, flannel sheets, and layers of sweaters. I'm grateful that there were a few precious snowflakes today, before it turned to rain. I'm grateful for coworkers who care about and are invested in outcomes. I'm also grateful for packages on the doorstep, music to sing along with, and pumpkin spice cream in my coffee.

My friend Janet posted this quote on Facebook and it seemed worthy of sharing:
 "Put down your raging opinions. Grasp at what you know is real and true right now: the people around you and the pain you can help alleviate with a kind word or touch." -Stephanie J. Stiavetti

Hugs to you all tonight, and go hug your near-and-dears, too. Please.

Peace.