As I neared age 40, a wave of depression washed over me, sweeping me into an abyss of self-pity. When I look back at that time, life was a jumbled mess and saying I was unhappy was an understatement.

On my birthday, I took a long look in the mirror and knew I needed to focus on positive elements of life. Too much negativity already existed in the world. I didn’t need to add to it.

My personal present - a bitchslap to the face - worked.

I started by focusing on gratitude, listing the little things many of us tend to take for granted. Sure, it was tough in the beginning. The first entry: Thankful for fresh blackberries. I remember shaking my head, thinking wow, that’s all you are grateful for?

Within a week, though, I was able to list multiple items every day. The more I focused on the good in life, the easier life became … at least it became easier to find gratitude in everyday moments.

With the current chaos in the world, I think it’s time for all of us to refocus on gratitude.

Last week, our staff challenged readers to express gratitude and share greetings with five people. I sent gratitude messages via text and email, as well as a couple of phone calls. It was gratifying to share words of thanks with family and friends, hear sincere happiness in their voices.

Practicing gratitude is healthy. It assists with stress relief, sound sleep and general health. Writing a daily journal entry, focusing on moments we’re thankful for, increases our satisfaction with life.

The thing is, you cannot just say you’re thankful. Your actions need to match your words. In other words, if you’re going to talk the talk, you better be able to walk the walk.

Since last Thursday, here are a few things I have been grateful for (in no particular order):

God bless Community Pride Care Center and its fantastic staff. Late last week, I had a mini-meltdown at my desk after a 15-minute phone conversation with Dad. I haven’t been able to see him since March 14 as visitors are not allowed. Sure, we talk via phone, but it isn’t the same. Luckily, they purchased an iPad so families can converse via Facetime. Seeing him puts my mind at ease until we can visit in person.

I am grateful for flexible staff members who are okay with social distancing by working from home. And, I am beyond thankful that we have open communication and are not afraid to share joys and concerns with one another. The SAM fam is a one-of-a-kind support system, and together, we tackle the troubles of the world.

After spending Sunday afternoon thoroughly disinfecting our office building, I am even more grateful for a loving husband and business partner. It wasn’t a fun job, but necessary. Thank you, Scott, for finding time in your schedule.

And, since it’s Monday evening and deadlines loom, I am grateful for the opportunity to share news from our communities, even when the news may be difficult to report.

After listening to the U.S. Surgeon General speak this morning, I worry about the uncertainty of the future, but I believe practicing gratitude - especially for those in the medical field - lessens those concerns.

I’m grateful for our small-town values, the support we offer when times get tough, and I thank God for teaching the importance of kindness.

Stay safe. Be mindful of your surroundings and your health. Always, be grateful and kind.