Last week, a new word caught my attention: 'war mindset'. According to NATO chief Mark Rutte, it is time to mentally prepare for a possible war. Banks have also called for having enough cash at home in times of emergency.

I read in the newspaper that these calls lead to fear and doom scenarios. From my daughter, I hear that prep videos are ubiquitous on TikTok. Once you start thinking about what could happen and combine that with the almost daily horrific images from war zones like Ukraine and Gaza, it can be quite disheartening. "Forewarned is forearmed," as they say.

I notice something else happening within myself, which is somewhat surprising. I feel even more grateful for the everyday things. The calls from Rutte and the banks have made me more aware of all the good things in this country and in my life. A few examples: I feel grateful every time I turn on the tap and fresh, clean drinking water comes out. I am more aware of how wonderful it is that our house is warm and comfortable, that there is electricity, that I have a lovely bed, and that I don't have to worry about whether we will have (enough) food tomorrow. What a privilege and what wealth!

This feeling of gratitude is a state of being that, perhaps paradoxically in this context of preparing for a possible war, brings inner peace and forms the foundation for me, the starting point from which I live and shape my life.

The war mindset also enhances the 'gratitude mindset.' How is that for you? How is your gratitude mindset set? Is it prominently present several times a day, or does it lie dormant, somewhere deep within you, waiting to be awakened and given more attention?

What are you grateful for in these times? Now that it is late December, looking back over the past year, what stands out for you? Looking ahead, how could you possibly bring gratitude even more into your daily awareness?

I wish you a loving, healthy, and safe 2025!