Gratitude Rocks!

The Olive Branch Community would like to encourage its members to appreciate just how much gratitude rocks! With the holiday season upon us and a new year approaching, it is the perfect time of year to focus on how much every one of us has to be grateful for.

This year, we have witnessed from afar, continued invasions of other countries and attacks that have killed thousands. In our own country, we have seen coverage of multiple mass shootings. Prices of necessities, rent, and mortgage rates have skyrocketed. This is all happening as many of us are still trying to recover from our own unique experiences during the Covid pandemic. Considering the heaviness of all these things can weigh heavy on one’s heart. Instead, I would like to challenge you to consider all the things you have to be grateful for.

In the Olive Branch waiting room, a basket full of wooden rocks has been placed at the front desk. We asked folks in the waiting room to take a rock and write on it something they are grateful for. Afterwards, they were invited to place their little gratitude rock in the basket and see what other members of our community have contributed. In doing so, we can inspire each other to appreciate all the things we have to be grateful for and realize just how much gratitude rocks!

There have been quite a few contributions so far. Looking through the gratitude rocks the other day; many rocks made me smile. I read that our members were grateful for their mom and dad, their hubby, their three kids, God, and their papa. One member was grateful for peace of mind. Some said they were grateful for their faith.  Another member was grateful for Olive Branch. One gratitude rock stated kisses and hugs. Another rock said “you’re awesome” with a little heart. In fact, many of the gratitude rocks had hearts on them, because there is a lot of love within this special community. No matter what is going on in your life, try to recognize all the things you do have to be grateful for. Gratitude Rocks!

What would you write on a gratitude rock?

If you would like to speak to a professional counselor or psychologist about this and are in the Chicago area, please feel free to contact Olive Branch Counseling Associates, Inc. at 708-633-8000. We are located at 6819 West 167^th Street in Tinley Park, Illinois 60477.

Hillary R.,

Masters Level Intern, 2023