We recently caught up with four Mainers, neighbors you might recognize, to talk about gratitude. We asked two simple prompts that open big doors: 1. What does gratitude mean to you? 2. What’s something you’re grateful for right now? Their answers are personal and practical, reminding us that gratitude is both a mindset and a daily practice—shaped by the work we do, the communities we serve, and the people and gifts in our lives. In this month of thanks, their reflections offer fresh ways to notice the good, name it, and share it. May their words spark a little extra thanks in your day.
DEQA DHALAC
Representative
GRATITUDE IS
…the practice of recognizing the small and big gifts that shape my life each day. It grounds me, reminding me I’m not alone, I’m supported, and I have reasons to keep moving forward. It's also a way of giving back. When I feel grateful, I'm inspired to extend that same care, generosity, and hope to others. For me, gratitude is a source of strength and a bridge connecting me to the people and community around me.
I AM GRATEFUL FOR
…my family’s love, my community’s strength, and the opportunity to serve with compassion and purpose. I give thanks for the resilience and faith that guide me, and for the allies who stand with me in building a more just and inclusive future.
SHELBY COGAN
Owner, Portland Power Yoga
GRATITUDE IS
...saying yes to life as it is. It’s not about forcing thankfulness, but a quiet acceptance that softens everything. When I stop trying to control or resist what’s happening, something shifts. Even hard moments become easier to hold. I don’t have to love every detail, but I can stop the inner fight, and in that space, gratitude shows up.
Sometimes it’s a breath, a kind glance, the way light moves through a window. Other times, it’s relief in not needing all the answers or holding everything together.
It’s less about what I have and more about how open I am to the moment. Gratitude becomes a natural state…quiet, steady, always within reach.
I AM GRATEFUL FOR
...sunlight, stillness, being with what is.
PIOUS ALI
Councilor
GRATITUDE IS
…remembering where I came from and honoring the people and values that carried me forward. As an immigrant, I know that every opportunity I have today is built on the sacrifices of others and the faith that sustained me through uncertain times. Gratitude is not only saying thank you, but living in a way that reflects those blessings.
I AM GRATEFUL FOR
…my family, whose love grounds me, and for the faith that continues to guide my path. I am grateful, too, for Portland, a city that welcomed me and gave me a place to grow and serve. Every day, I strive to give back by building community and helping others feel the same sense of belonging.
JOHN HATCHER
Broker, Keller Williams Real Estate
GRATITUDE IS
…acknowledging and valuing the kindness, support, and opportunities in my life, especially the meaningful relationships I share with my partner, friends, and loved ones.
I AM GRATEFUL FOR
… As I reflect on 40 years in the real estate business, I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support of my partner, friends, and colleagues. Their encouragement, trust, and collaboration have not only sustained my career but also allowed me to support many local charities and nonprofits.