I read recently that when you intentionally focus on things you appreciate, it can shift how your mind processes the world. It’s said that gratitude nudges the brain toward dopamine and serotonin, those wonderful little chemicals that help us feel rewarded, steady, and alive.
Dopamine is the brain’s “reward” chemical. It says, “Hey, this is good, let’s do this again.”
Serotonin is the “mood stabilizer.” It helps with well-being, grounding, and that quiet feeling that maybe, just maybe, you’re going to be alright.
Gratitude does not mean pretending everything is perfect. It does not erase trouble, pain, fear, or hard memories. Instead, it gives you an anchor. When life is changing fast, gratitude reminds you that even if the moment is tough, you are still standing. You still have purpose. You still have pride.
As I rode my motorized trike into Biloxi this morning, I started thinking about my current life and what I am grateful for.
• This great trike between my legs. It used to be my dick, but now I’ve got even more freedom down there.
• My freedom. I am doing exactly what I want to do at this moment in time, not what someone else demands that I do.
• My amazing health. I will be eighty in thirty days, and I feel better than I have felt in decades.
• My body. I have been working out for the last six months, and I feel strong. I look good with my shirt off, and I plan to be damn tan by the middle of summer.
• I have a new Humana health plan with free meds.
• My new Silver Sneakers plan becomes active July 1st. That means a free Planet Fitness membership.
• That is where I went this morning. I used the machines like a real man, not like an old one.
• My living arrangement is solid. I share a two-bedroom place with a guy named Charlie. We get along fine.
• I have a private bedroom with my TV, my laptop, my grandmother’s blankets, and the teddy bear I was born with.
• I have money in the bank, and I can afford the protein powder that powers this old-but-not-dead body.
• I have a little bit of family that I do not see much of lately, but at least they are alive and well.
• I have Biloxi. I have sunshine. I have my trike. I have places to go.
• And I’m sober...
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