Bird-Listening, and Three Good Things
I’ve always wanted a front porch. We sort of have one, but really the closest thing is a table and chairs on the patio in front of the house. Can’t sit there while it’s raining, but it’ll do. It’s what we have and I’m grateful.
where I grew up - well, there is a tree!
When you grow up in Queens, New York City in an apartment building, with mostly concrete outside the window, you always appreciate the greenery - and the birdsong. It never gets old.
It just takes a little reminder sometimes.
WSHU Public Radio has a new :60 feature every Friday afternoon at 5:49 pm called "Birdsong Break.” Since I work there and am on the air at that time, I never miss it 🙂
What is it? A brief description of a particular bird (like titwillow, or robin) and a minute of birdsong. That’s it. And, a bit to my surprise, I love it. I close my eyes and just focus on that bird’s call. It is truly a little brain break, and so lovely.
So, while I may never get into birdwatching, I am now very much into bird-listening.
One of the best gratitude practices I’ve found (and occasionally do) is called Three Good Things. I used to do this with my kids at the end of each day, to find three good memories/moments in the day to keep in mind, while sweeping away what you’d rather not dwell on. Like clearing the attic of needless debris.
But starting your day this way is a bit different, and sets the tone: there’s a lot that is good now - and this day is full of possibilities for more.
The trick is to keep it specific. Not grateful for my health, my home, my family, etc. Yes, that’s nice -- but gratitude research tells us that specific is better.
Specificity makes the memory easier to “savor,” so the brain actually re-experiences the good moment instead of just naming a category. Generic entries can become automatic and emotionally flat, while concrete ones feel more real and engaging.
You might try this: Instead of grateful FOR, you can be grateful THAT, or grateful TO - and add some specifics. And even if you do this sporadically (as I do), write about different things each time, smaller things, things about that moment, that conversation, that person.
So: what might be on that morning list?
The joke your kid told you that made you laugh.
The conversation you had with the friend that helped you feel loved/supported
Your spouse did the laundry
The person behind you in line who gave you a compliment
You found your missing shoe
Or:-Birdsong: I am so grateful this morning to have a moment to sit at my old patio table with my coffee and hear birdsong. Three different tunes.With grass and trees around me.
Sometimes all we need to do is notice.
What’s on your list today?
