gratitude is the word

If you read anything about happiness, spirituality, philosophy, psychology or success you will see the concept of gratitude referred to over and over again. Gratitude has been practiced by all societies at various stages through out the history of time. The benefits of gratitude are numerous, profound and personal. Don't just read this and believe it -  I think it is essential to do it yourself for yourself to discover the impacts for you.

What does the practice of gratitude look like? It can take the form of prayer, meditation or a simple thank you.  Oprah famously popularised the use of the 'gratitude journal' in the nineties.  Don't limit yourself to this list.  Make the practice your own!  (Every night at dinnertime my four year old daughter and I list our three favourite things of the day.) If you express appreciation for the aspects of your life that are benefiting you then you are doing 'gratitude'.

I would like to share my top 3 experiences and relationships that have led me to the professional (and personal) place I am in now:

• One of the greatest achievements of my life is teaching the Meisner Technique at The Actor's Playhouse.  I had the privilege of guiding many amazing people in their creative journey and witnessing their vulnerability in that process. From beginners to professional actors. Directors and writers. Dog trainers and office workers.  The gratitude I feel for these experiences is truly beyond words.  

• I feel deeply grateful to my teacher, mentor and friend Vikki Blanche. Her trust and belief in me allowed me to truly trust and believe in myself as both an actor and a person. Her kindness, generosity and insight led me to become her assistant and eventually the head teacher at her business for over ten years. Together we have sensitively (and successfully) negotiated the transitions from teacher/student, employer/employee to authentic and inspiring friends. 

• Sanford Meisner and the Meisner Technique in a way saved my life. Dramatic, huh!?  Well I am referring to one of the greatest acting teachers and acting processes ever. I never met the man yet he spoke my words. I clearly remember sitting in class thinking "WOW - everything I had instinctively done to 'be an actor'  (everything I had been told was wrong about me in other acting training) was encapsulated in this process!"  Simply I felt validated, seen and heard. I found a way I could drop my shit (socialisation and persona) and I was good at it. 

This gratitude list is simply the tip of the iceberg.  I am forever grateful for my loving family and friends. I think it's time I let them know in more detail so I am setting myself a challenge this year to write to each person and share with them my heartfelt gratitude.  Will you take the challenge with me?

Let me know. And thank you!

The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude - Friedrich Nietzsche