Mindful Monday: Finding Gratitude in the Grind

One of the true perks of my work with different firms and organizations is the people I get to work with and the purpose behind the work I get to do. Of course, like any job, not every day is roses—work comes with its share of challenges, pressures, and unexpected hurdles.

Last week was a busy one. Early Friday morning, the culmination of a year of planning, many committee meetings, and countless details came to life at LEAD Upstate’s (Law Enforcement Appreciation Day) annual Line of Gratitude.

The event began at 6:00 a.m., with cars already lining up by 5:15—headlights stretching down the long driveway leading to the Greenville Downtown Airport and as far as the eye could see. Volunteers were in place with hot coffee, warm smiles, and words of thanks as the first officers arrived. There was an unmistakable sense of anticipation and energy in the air, a shared commitment to starting the day with gratitude.

Founded by Seabrook Marchant, the visionary behind the initiative, LEAD Upstate has been a labor of love carried forward by a dedicated committee of community leaders. For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of serving alongside them as the director of marketing, one of the most meaningful roles I’ve been entrusted with. The event itself is the result of the collective efforts of these committee members and the overwhelming support of business and community sponsors who give generously year after year. Each year, the event grows, and each year we challenge ourselves to deliver on the mission in even bigger ways.

Now in its 11th year, LEAD once again transformed the Greenville Downtown Airport into a powerful scene of community appreciation. In a continuous drive-through format with double lanes, officers received breakfast and refreshments, the annual LEAD t-shirt and challenge coin, and a Valor Bag filled with practical items thoughtfully selected for them (and valued at more that $200). Many officers brought their families, either before or after their shift—children waving from the backseat and proud smiles from loved ones—making the morning even more meaningful.

This year, nearly 650 officers were served in just a few hours. That number represents more than just meals or giveaways—it represents a visible show of support. Local and state officials, business leaders, and volunteers came together, side by side, to say “thank you” in a tangible way.

Why It Matters

The reality is that law enforcement officers face increasing dangers and challenges in the world we live in. They step into uncertainty daily, often without recognition for the sacrifices they make. Gratitude isn’t just a nice sentiment—it’s a force that strengthens morale, builds trust, and reminds us of our shared humanity. For officers, who often carry unseen burdens, these small tokens of appreciation become a powerful reminder that their community values them.

As I reflect on last week, I’m reminded that mindfulness isn’t only about slowing down or being present in quiet moments—it’s also about being fully engaged in the work that matters, even when it’s exhausting. Gratitude has a way of fueling us forward.

Last week reminded me just how powerful gratitude can be when it’s put into action.

So as we start this week, I encourage you to pause and consider: Who in your world needs to hear “thank you”? What effort can you make to show appreciation? It doesn’t have to be a large event—it could be a handwritten note, a text, or even a word spoken in the moment.

Because at the end of the day, gratitude—whether given or received—changes the way we move through the world.

To learn more about LEAD Upstate and its mission, visit leadupstate.com.