It is in my daughter’s drowsy smile, as she awakes, and asks me to make her some matcha, careful to add that I don’t have to, if I don’t want to, even if I always do.
It is in the book of poetry that reminds me why I write.
It is in the music of the Italian language that proves that beauty is everywhere, even if it is -20 degrees outside and I don’t (yet) live in a Tuscany, but Montréal.
It is in the strange words I string together, like breadcrumbs, leading me to the only ‘home’ I know.
It is in the eyes of the cashier who asks me how I am doing and wishes me bonne journée!
It is in my coffee, bread, and eggs.
It is in a song that breaks my heart and makes me sing.
It is in a clumsy dance that awakens my body to life.
It is in the touch of a man, who pulls me close and kisses my neck.
It is in the kind word from a friend, delivered in person or in a text message, ‘Thinking of you. Sending love.’
It is in an e-mail congratulating me for a publication, after too many rejections.
It is in my daughter brushing her hair in front of the mirror and saying, ‘I love you mum.’
It is in my teenage daughter who compliments my outfit and tells me that I am still ‘kidnappable.’
It is in warrior pose that for a moment makes me feel like I could win any battle.
It is in the laps that I do at the pool, steering ahead, carried by the water.
It is in my mouth, for I have no toothache today.
It is in a good Italian pizza I share with Liam, despite that evil gluten that is supposed to be so bad for us.
It is in the baked cauliflower I make for my daughters that my daughter doesn’t want to share with anyone.
It is in the colour yellow, green and hot pink (why not?).
It is in a good night sleep.
It is in something I had been taking for granted, until I lost it.
It is in the small things I failed to see, until I was reminded of their existence.
What brings joy into your life?
As always, thank you for reading me!
Still in the theme of recognizing gratitude in the small things.
In case you missed it…