Today’s Gratitude Note opened with these lines:
and gave us this challenge:
As you consider gratitude today, think about something that bothers you, irks you, ticks you off. Pause. Can you think of one thing (just one) (but maybe more) that’s actually good about this particular thing? Does it stretch you in some way? Can you accept the thorns in order to celebrate the rose?
I couldn’t help but recall those words as I left the polls this afternoon after casting my ballot in what has been the most awful election process I could imagine.
I love this country. I love (most of … let’s be honest here) the people who live here. The right to vote – to elect those who will lead this great country of ours – is a privilege and an honor. And casting my vote in an informed manner is a responsibility I have taken more seriously this year than ever.
Regardless of next week’s outcome, our nation has a lot of healing to do. We’ll need to keep our eyes on the rose
because I think the thorns are going to be plentiful and painful.
So – this wasn’t at all the post I thought I’d write today, but it’s the one that seemed right. Many of my blogging friends are playing along with Kat and Carol today and talking about their favorite teachers. Click here to read more about it and to join in the fun!
mere-et-filles 
the US election is on a lot of minds, and weighing heavy on many hearts.I chuckled at your mention of the thorns being plentiful and painful…it's true! but to keep our eye on the rose. yes. it's what we must do…(also, I like that this wasn't what you thought you'd write, but you went with it anyway because it felt right. bravo!)
There are those of us who think thorns are roses or others aren't entitled to have flowers in their lives… or to vote. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and gratitudes for the greatness that is this country, despite some popular opinions that it no longer exists. I trust the truth shall prevail.
Thank you!
A Swedish relative emailed me last week to ask about our election process and I was stumped by some of his questions. Do candidates in the US mainly trade insults? When do they talk about how they stand on issues? How does a US voter decide who to vote for when no candidate seems ideal? I could only tell him I had the same questions. Thanks for the reminder to appreciate and value the rose while watching out for the thorns.P.S. Cool photo!
I am just appalled by the election process this year. I just want it to be over. But I'm afraid even when it's finished that it won't be over.
I mentioned the election in my post as well yet focused on something else. Thank you for going here. xo
Our campaigning season is too long and extremely flawed and a big fat waste of money. But our voting process is a beautiful thing and something we can be proud of. Here's to waking up next Wednesday and having it be over.
Thank you for this post, and yes we have much healing to do. But, we have done it before and we can do it again. While we all don't support the same candidate – we do all support **and love** the same country. This is the glue that binds us together. I truly believe that.
So true! Can't wait for next Wednesday. Let's hope everyone can keep an eye on the Rose.
I have a much needed different perspective after reading your post. Thank you!
I've been sick about this entire election. But thank-you for putting a different spin on it and we must have hope. America is pretty darn great!
Painful as this campaign/election has been-at least I can cast my vote and have political discussions without fear of reprisals. I think it is probably the first time there's been an elections where both sides think it's been horrible!