“Enthusiasm doesn’t just happen to us. It’s an attitude that is either fostered or hindered by our decisions about what we’ll bring to our experiences…

“Gratitude… heightens our enthusiasm for living.

“The power to enjoy life fully, to bring enthusiasm to whatever we do, is within our grasp. In fact, it’s within our own mind.”

– “In God’s Care*: Daily Meditations on Spirituality in Recovery,” May 27
*As We Understand God

I admit that I find it a challenge to tap into enthusiasm from within, that at times I need outside circumstances and people to help me along.

This week has been filled with enthusiasm and gratitude. My enthusiasm has been fueled by the circumstances I entered into by making the decision that I needed and deserved a more fulfilling job; seriously searching for a new role; putting the time and effort into a lengthy, rigorous interview process at a higher education institution; accepting the job offer; and, starting my new role this past week. And, my decision and actions have yielded me the experience of a role and a work culture that feeds both my intellect and my spirit. I am blessed.

I’m not surprised that enthusiasm and gratitude are enmeshed with one another since the word “enthusiasm” has roots in the concept of being inspired by a god. And, when I feel gratitude, it is towards Spirit.

Enthusiasm and gratitude go hand-in-hand and I’m delighted to have been experiencing them at a heightened level this week at my job and as I move into a three-day weekend.