ay's headwinds? You need them, and so do I. Gratitude and optimism are two powerful antidotes that add tremendous value to you, your life, and those around you. Gratitude is for the big and small moments of your day. Claim your gratitude today! Write it down, make it happen. Speak it out, share it with another person, generate a new conversation.We are hardwired to connect! You get to choose how you want to connect to yourself and the world, every day. What will you choose? Choosing gratitude and optimism takes intentionality and effort. Gratitude doesn't mean or equate to happiness. It's actually better, more durable and sustainable than happiness. Gratitude is the marathon, not the sprint.This is your chance. Take the time to intentionally walk into your day, the breakfast table, the conversation, that meeting . . . and, most of all, to your own children and your students. May you meet them and your profession for the amazing gifts they truly are. Every single day. One day at a time. Moment by moment. Blessings to you on this journey.Jenny Severson, EdD, is an educator, author, and speaker. Dr. Jenny speaks to audiences across the globe on how to bounce back from adversity, stay curious, and find the silver lining through gratitude and optimism. Jenny's married to Todd; a mom of three growing children; and a breast cancer survivor.