By Carol Tobler, Grateful Soul

Gratitude, on some level, has been a part of my life since my parents and church began teaching me as a small child. It was important to say “thank you” and to thank God for my many blessings. Scientific studies have taught us gratitude’s positive effects on our physical and psychological health: better sleep,
mental strength and empathy. It can reduce negative emotions and is an overlooked tool during difficult times.

I recently had an experience that reminded me of the power of gratitude. I lost my husband earlier this year after a long illness and I was ready for some family time on a 24/7 basis. I flew to Houston to spend a week with my daughter and her family and it was a wonderful time. On the plane trip going home, my mind started questioning if being back home would be too quiet or lonely for me.

Arriving back in Tulsa, just as I exited the airport, I saw Cliff (TW Transportation) pulling up to drive me back to Trinity Woods. My thoughts suddenly went back to the times Cliff had driven Ken for chemo treatments during Covid. I felt my anxiety slowly going away. As I was unlocking my front door, I
noticed a beautiful pot of mums sitting there as an expression of someone else’s gratitude. In the following days, I was receiving calls and texts from Trinity Woods members asking about my trip and welcoming me home. Others were extending invitations for lunch or some activity. It seemed that someone was reaching out every day and the quiet and loneliness were not insurmountable.

I’m still on my journey of healing from a great loss but I’m just where I need to be. Practicing gratitude is a daily must for this journey and I hope to reach new levels. The Trinity Woods’ staff and members are a caring and supportive community that are meeting my needs. I’m very grateful!