I hear lots of people say that they are “creatures of habit.” Some affirm this with great pride, and some with a touch of self-deprecation. Most have a habit of repeating it with a bit of both.

I, too, have my habits. Some are worth keeping (meeting my bffs in the pool for early morning exercise) and some could bear changing (drinking two double-shot lattes when I wake up).

What I am noticing these days is the growing role of more soulful habits in my life, habits that have become rituals.

One of my favorites has been going around the Shabbat table on Friday nights to share expressions of gratitude as well as an example of something from the past week we are each proud of. Having done this at the home of friends many times, I added it into the mix at my own table right after the High Holidays last fall.

Time and again, this ritual slows us down and invites us to linger over the blessings of the evening. As we let go of the stresses and challenges of the week, we pause, hold onto, and share a few things that hold meaning for us. My guests and I get to know each other better through this exercise, even if we already enjoy a close relationship. Sometimes the gratitude expressed is for ongoing blessings, like renewed health or the gift of Shabbat itself. At other times, it is simply for one another, for the relationship, for each doing our part to make Shabbat joy together.

Feeling and expressing gratitude come easily to me. On the other hand, saying what I am proud of can be a reach, as I strive to attain the healthiest amount of humility. Weekly practice has provided me with a ritualized growth opportunity, even though I still sometimes struggle with naming what I am proud of in myself.

Unlike habits, some of which I repeat without intention, this grateful for/proud of ritual has me reflecting hours before we even gather on Friday night. In doing so, my heart and home begin to fill with warmth and love, as I eagerly anticipate welcoming Shabbat with others.