Here’s the thing about being grateful: it’s easy to feel it but not express it as I’m feeling it. I got out of the hospital, kind of shell-shocked and grateful to be back at home. I hadn’t spread the word about being in the hospital and as I started to feel a bit better, I took some pics, and put up a new one as my Facebook profile, just saying that I’m out of the hospital and ready to make some art. 

I was and am so grateful for the waterfall of folks who commented, with concern, love, anticipation, and all. I was so surprised – not because I don’t think I have a community, but I keep myself pretty much to myself, so I don’t often share what’s going on with my life with that community. I find it easier to cheer on the folks I follow than to remember that they would do the same for me, given half a chance. 

Plus, feeling grateful and expressing the gratitude has been proven to be healing:

In positive psychology research, gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness. Gratitude helps people feel more positive emotions, relish good experiences, improve their health, deal with adversity, and build strong relationships.

Giving thanks can make you happier

So here’s to all of my wonderful community: thank you from the bottom of my heart!