An attitude of gratitude

By Mermaid Debbie

Webster's Dictionary defines gratitude as "The act of being grateful; thankfulness."

Being grateful is a simple act, and yet so many people find it difficult. Our world seems to be moving faster and faster, and our constant access to the media doesn't help. To be in a state of gratitude is to be content, even if for just that moment. Being grateful makes us feel better about ourselves and each other. Being grateful makes the happenings in the world and our lives easier to handle.

Several years ago, while going through a difficult time in my life, I took
Oprah's advice and bought a blank journal to record the things I was grateful for. Boy, some days it sure was hard to come up with anything to write in my "Gratitude Journal." However, I found that by going through the process of thinking about what was good, I actually began to feel good. I remember one day when I felt so sad and burdened that all I could come up with was, "I am grateful that I am not constipated!" Well, it counts because in my mind that is something to be grateful for! Most days I can make a really long list, but on a day when life feels overwhelming I simply remember to be grateful for the small things.

Take a few moments each day to jot down things that you are grateful for. Here are some examples of what I am grateful for:

A beautiful sunset
The right to vote
Food on my table
Good coffee
The smell of good coffee
Chocolate
Generous, kind friends
A sunny day
A rainy day
My husband
My healthy children
Green grass
The scent of freshly mown, green grass
My pets
Flowers
The smell of lavender
A wildlife sighting
The sound of children laughing
My community
Leaves rustling in the breeze
Waves lapping on the shore
Beautiful scenery
Wonderful supportive parents

After a few weeks of following this routine, you will feel better. Some experts say that feeling grateful even brings about physical changes, such as sleeping better, having more energy and a general feeling of contentment.

I am grateful for this wonderful venue to express myself and
inspire others. I am grateful to be working with two of my wonderful friends,
Shelley and our new Mermaid, Chrissy, who are both kind, good women.

Comments

[Daniella]

That was a wonderful post! It really is a small thing to do, but I KNOW I don't do it at all some days. Perhaps writing it down will be a great thing! I am going to try, and I'll let you know!!
xxDaniella