Gratitude Journal

In this episode, Matthew reflects on how a solitary, lonesome trek through dangerously hot weather could spark a momentary appreciation of an unexpected meteorological 'gift'.

In this episode, Matthew talks about accidentally finding the Japanese concept of 'gaman'...how Fr. Fick showed him it, indirectly, years ago...and why it's imperative that he try to practice it.

In this episode, Matthew struggled to keep it together on a day-to-day basis. The island beckons.

In this episode, Matthew gets stuck on the idea of 'impermanence', and wonders if anything can free the wheel from spinning in the mud.

Matthew ruminates on how a slight grain of acknowledgement can sometimes make all the difference.   Got a comment or a thought? Email: TheGratitudeJournal@proton.me

In this episode, Matthew 'gets a hand' from a stranger...and wonders if he can reciprocate. Get in touch with Matthew: TheGratitudeJournal@proton.me

In this 2026 episode, Matthew speaks at length about fraught relationships, spiritual darkness, and the need to pay heed to the sound of the bell.

I'll let  you decide as to whether or not 2025 was good or awful. Here's to a better 2026!

No, Matthew is not dead! Matthew discusses acquaintances who come out of the woodwork, blowing leaves, and the need for (finally!) sleep. 

What can creepy-crawlies teach us about 'gratitude'? Matthew shares his fear for them, and how it helped him move in the direction (cautiously) of thanksgiving. (eek)

That's what we called 'a walk' in the seminary! Excuse the Hokas grinding against the cement! Matthew takes a jaunt around the neighborhood, in search of being grateful for an event long after it already happened. Strange, huh? No, not really. Bring your sunglasses and SPF-40!

In this audio/video episode, Matthew reveals an honest assessment of his current mental state...and how something as simple as a train whistle can hopefully re-center us, amongst the daily chaos.

In this episode, Matthew continues to explore 'loss' and the death of his parents. For 'TheGratitudeJournal' on YouTube, please search TheGratitudeJournal.

In this episode, Matthew reveals the recent loss of his parents, as well as the gratitude found in a time of loss.

In this episode, Matthew recounts his 12 hours in the Emergency Room and why the most unlikely people can help us realize a brief whiff of 'gratitude'.

Look out all other aircraft: Matthew is in the sky!

Can we learn something from Donald Trump? In this episodes, Matthew discusses the crutch called 'being a victim', and why it's necessary to identify the warning sins and how to deal with the aftermath.

In this episode, Matthew leans into finding merit and worth in the smaller, less-noticeable events in which to discover, and uncover, gratitude.

New eyes, a sweet tooth, and a chance meeting with a VERY large dog, on this episode of 'The Gratitude Journal' podcast.

In this episode, Matthew gets new eyes, expands his care-giving duties, and checks the box-score of his beloved (?) Cleveland Guardians.

A tray of cookies. Should you have one? Two? 'Making Your Peace' with the trials and tribulations, in this episode of the Gratitude Journal podcast.

Matthew elaborates on how NOT to beat yourself up too badly over 'regret'.

In this final 2023 episode, Matthew ruminates on grapefruits, sisters, and 'thank you' cards...all in anticipation of a coming new year.

Matthew's Thanksgiving message on experiencing the 'now' and then letting it go...and how difficult that can be, especially when your mouth is full of turkey!

Although he's still pondering the importance of cucumbers, Matthew provides an update on Donna's cancer diagnosis and an uninvited surprising visit from an old nemesis.