Life Lessons from a Broken Ankle and a Kitten Named Pumpkin

This Thanksgiving brought some unexpected lessons—starting with a broken ankle. Crutches weren’t exactly on my Black Friday wish list, but here we are. Want a crash course in gratitude? Try crawling to make coffee when you can’t drive or even stand without help. It makes you appreciate the simple things—like a swept floor and friends who come through when you need them most.

Being temporarily immobile has made me reflect on the importance of physical activity. I’m so grateful that I made my health a priority this year, especially by taking up Pilates. It’s been a life saver, particularly for maintaining upper body strength. A reminder: staying as active as possible now can make a big difference in even the simplest tasks in the future.

And then there’s Pumpkin, my newly adopted kitten. He wasn’t part of the original holiday plans, but he’s been the best surprise. His playful energy and quiet companionship remind me that even when life throws you a curveball, there’s always something to be grateful for.

Here are ten reminders of what we can all be grateful for—small but meaningful ways to bring perspective and hope into the new year:

1. Good health: Whether it’s perfect or a work in progress, having the strength to face each day is a gift.
2. Relationships: Friends, family, or even kind strangers can make life brighter.
3. Time: Every day is a new opportunity to learn, grow, or simply enjoy the moment.
4. A safe space: A place to call home, no matter how big or small, is worth cherishing.
5. Nature’s beauty: A quiet walk, a sunrise, or even a breeze can remind us of life’s simple wonders.
6. Growth through challenges: Every setback teaches us resilience and strength we didn’t know we had.
7. Laughter: A shared joke or a heartfelt laugh can lighten even the heaviest of days.
8. Hope: No matter what, tomorrow holds the possibility of something new.
9. Acts of kindness: Both giving and receiving kindness create a ripple effect of positivity.
10. The ability to reflect: Taking a moment to appreciate life’s journey helps us enter the new year with clarity and gratitude.

Sometimes, life slows you down to remind you what really matters: resilience, gratitude, and the joy of unexpected company.

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Diane Darling is an author, speaker, and entrepreneur. See Diane in action and learn more about her topics here. McGraw-Hill published her books, The Networking Survival Guide and Networking for Career Success, now in 9 languages. She published, "She Said It: A collection of quotes by remarkable women."

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