What reminds you to be thankful? 

Over the last few months, I have often felt like I have been rushing around more than usual. Travelling for work has meant more busy days, more appointments and more places I have needed to be. Alongside this, there have also been the commitments in my personal life, showing up and being present for the people I love, while remembering to care for myself too.

Recently, while travelling in Derbyshire, I came across a tradition called ‘Well Dressings’. I wonder if you have ever heard of it?

Speaking with some of the churches where I have delivered our Tailor Made Consultations over recent months, I discovered that many villages celebrate this wonderful tradition. Large boards are decorated with flowers, seeds, moss and other natural materials, carefully pressed into clay to create beautiful and intricate pictures.

What particularly caught my attention was the meaning behind the tradition. Well dressings are often associated with giving thanks for the clean water that communities have access to, while also celebrating local heritage, faith and community.

It made me stop and think.

How often do we pause to appreciate the things we can so easily take for granted?

Water is something most of us use every day without giving it a second thought. We turn on a tap and expect clean water to be there. Yet something as simple and essential as water has been a reason for communities to come together and give thanks for generations.

Perhaps there is something we can learn from that.

In the busyness of everyday life, gratitude can easily become something we think about when we have time. But maybe gratitude is most important when life feels busiest.

The well dressings reminded me to slow down for a moment and notice what is already around me, the people who support me, the opportunities I have, the places I get to visit, the work I am privileged to do, and even the simple things that make everyday life possible.

So, what reminds you to be thankful?

Maybe this week, take a moment to notice one thing you might normally overlook and give thanks for it.