Gratitude is More Than an Attitude: It’s a Way of Living

The word gratitude has been tossed around more in the last decade than ever before.  That’s a very good thing.

Practicing gratitude is more than just a flip of a word or phrase when the obvious blessing comes your way.  But does the word, the thought of it, or the practice of expressing it come as easily when you are challenged or when life just seemingly sucks?  Once you can truthfully express your thankfulness in all situations, your practice has come a long way and I would bet, doing so has changed your life.

Living in gratitude or expressing it often, even amidst great adversity, is not pie-in-the-sky or Pollyanna thinking.  It is real.  It works.  It transforms lives and the world.

If you’re ever at a loss for being able to express your thanks for all of the many gifts and blessings in your life, read this poem to remind and give you some starting points for your next utterance or exclamation! of gratitude.

GRATITUDE

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire,

If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something

For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.

During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations

Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge

Because it builds your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes

Blunders teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary

Because it means you’ve made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.

A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are

also thankful for the setbacks.

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles.

They can become your blessings.

~ Author Unknown ~

May your blessings be counted in their entirety and your tables be surrounded with loving hearts during this season focused on thanks.