In this episode of Cultivate the Ordinary, host Travis discusses the transformative power of gratitude, especially in the face of personal struggles. He shares his family's recent challenges, including health scares involving his brother, and how these experiences have deepened his appreciation for life's gifts.

Through a heartfelt story about his favorite band Carbon Leaf, Travis illustrates the importance of connection and gratitude in difficult times. Times that God is nearer to us than we often feel, and orchestrates gifts and unexpected moments to encourage us in our difficulties. He also shares about the discipline of trying to find more gratitude in the small everyday moments of life.

He emphasizes that joy often stems from gratitude and encourages listeners to recognize and cherish the small moments that make life meaningful.

Checkout some of Carbon Leaf's music:

https://youtu.be/4BItUurqpsw?si=p_dDnDgmJQyAzRGn

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HlhlHsGE6as

Travis's book:

Shiny Eyes: Seeing Better Through the Lenses of Joy, Tears, Beauty, and Hope

Takeaways

• Gratitude can spark a sense of aliveness.
• Personal struggles can deepen our appreciation for life.
• Connection with others can provide comfort during tough times.
• Gratitude is a discipline that can be cultivated.
• Finding joy in small moments is essential.
• Living in radical amazement can transform our perspective.
• Gratitude can help us navigate through suffering.
• The little things in life often become the big things.
• Being grateful for one thing a day can change our outlook.
• Joy is rooted in gratitude, not the other way around.