Expressing gratitude toward your home and the earth can help you stay conscious of where the gifts in your life come from.

Just as we take care of our friends and families, our homes and Mother Earth take care of us. Our homes give us a place of refuge -- a sanctuary that stands between us and the elements of nature and the rest of the world. The earth is an unselfish giver of life and the steward of our physical and spiritual needs. Earth's bountiful plant life nourishes us, gives us air, and offers us cooling shade. Her waters quench our thirst, and her beauty stirs our souls. Yet it is easy to take both of these wonderful sources of our blessings for granted. Expressing the gratitude you feel toward your home and the earth for the blessings each provides can help you stay conscious of where many of the gifts in your life come from. Each time you give thanks you'll be reminded of the importance of caring for your home and for Mother Earth. There is a simple and beautiful meditation you can perform to show your gratitude. Begin by finding a quiet place where you can be alone. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply until you feel relaxed, and then read the following out loud:
 
"Thank you, home, for allowing me to live within your walls. Thank you for giving me shelter, warmth, and security. Thank you for allowing me to live my life in your womb, for staying strong and sturdy, for supporting me, and for your beauty.
 
Thank you, Earth, for the land that I live on and for allowing me to steward life with you. Thank you for allowing me to walk upon your soil, cultivate you, and live in partnership with you. Thank you for supporting my home and my family.
 
Thank you, plants, minerals, and animals that dwell on the land that I steward. Thank you for allowing me to experience your beauty, share in your wonderment of life, and for the honor of living with all of you on this earth. Thank you for the wisdom and joy you bring to humanity.
 
I honor you."
 
You can perform this mediation as often as you like and anytime you feel particularly thankful for the many blessings you have received. Each time you do, you'll reaffirm and strengthen your connection with all that protects, supports, and sustains you.