Hey there! Welcome to day seventeen of my 7-40 challenge, where I’m pouring my heart into sharpening my skills, building unstoppable momentum, and keeping my eyes fixed on what truly matters. Today, I’m sitting here with a heart so full it might just burst—not from anything grand or flashy, but from the quiet, powerful glow of gratitude. And I want to share that warmth with you, because gratitude? It’s not just a feeling. It’s a spark that can set your whole world ablaze in the best way possible.
Let me paint you a picture. Tonight, I’m reflecting on all the blessings in my life—my faith, my family, the opportunities I’ve been given, and the endless love that surrounds me. It’s like a cozy fire in my chest, warming me from the inside out. And it’s got me thinking about something Albert Schweitzer once said: “At times, our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person; each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.”
Those words hit me hard because they remind me that gratitude isn’t meant to sit still. It’s not a quiet moment of reflection that fades when the day ends. No, gratitude is a call to action—a nudge to take that spark and pass it on, to light someone else’s flame and keep the cycle going.
Let’s get real for a second. Gratitude isn’t just saying “thank you” and moving on. It’s about doing something with it. It’s about taking that warmth in your heart and turning it into movement, into impact. For me, that’s been so clear in this season of change. I recently made a big move—new city, new job, new chapter. My old job? It was good. It had its highs and lows, familiar faces, and steady routines. I was grateful for it, truly. But deep down, I knew I needed a change. I wanted to be closer to family, to step into something that felt like a better fit for who I am and who I’m becoming. And then this new company came along and gave me a chance. A real chance to shine. I’m so thankful for that—not just for the job, but for the opportunity to show up, work hard, and prove that their trust in me wasn’t misplaced.
That gratitude? It didn’t just make me smile on day one and call it a day. It lit a fire under me. It’s pushing me to bring my A-game, to add value, to lift others up as I go. I want to earn every opportunity I’m given and create more for those around me. That’s what gratitude does—it moves you. It’s not about chasing rewards or recognition. It’s about saying “thank you” by doing good with what you’ve been given. It’s about keeping that cycle of thankfulness alive, sparking it in others so they can feel it too.
So, here’s my challenge to you today: pause for a moment and think about what’s filling your heart with gratitude. Maybe it’s the people who’ve believed in you, the small wins that keep you going, or the simple beauty of a sunrise that reminds you life is good. Whatever it is, hold it close. Let it warm you. And then—here’s the important part—do something with it. How can you turn that gratitude into action? Maybe it’s a kind word to someone who needs it, a helping hand, or a bold step toward a dream you’ve been holding back on. Whatever it is, let gratitude be your fuel.
I’d love to hear from you. What’s got your heart glowing with thankfulness today? And how are you turning that gratitude into something real, something that moves the needle for you or someone else? Drop it in the comments below—let’s inspire each other and keep this spark alive.
Here’s to day seventeen, to gratitude that moves us. I’ll see you tomorrow for day eighteen, ready to keep this journey going strong. Keep shining, friends—you’ve got this!
David Willis 