Whenever you take the time to make a list of things that you’re grateful for right now, in the moment, something wonderful happens in your attitude and in how you feel – maybe not right away, but soon to follow. In spite of what else may be going on around you, there is ALWAYS something to be grateful for – even when it seems your life is falling apart around you. And the benefits of being able to take that time to acknowledge those things are immeasurably good for You and how you feel.
There’s 2 truths to consider about situations and life: The first is that what’s happening right now, in the moment, and how you’re thinking about it, is how you’re going to feel about it. The second is that as long as you are breathing and your heart is beating, there’s always something to be grateful for – even at the last breath and the last beat – it’s true.
So if you have this choice to feel good, or just feel better, with faithful peace knowing some things are going right, and you have the power to influence that in your own being…is it not worth it? Are you not worth it? Of course you are! So why not give it a try?!
Let’s look at a few contrasts:
You just received a foreclosure notice…you still have time to redeem the situation and make some moves to change it; you’re comfortable and safe in your house right now – be grateful for that in the moment; it will provide you with the clarity required to act in the situation.
You just lost a friend or loved one…(of course you grieve any loss – good or bad – but as much as you can and as soon as you can) be grateful that you were able to share life for the time you did; be grateful for what that person added to your life and the things you were able to give them; be grateful for love.
Your child was bullied at school today…be grateful that s/he has loving parents to come home to; be grateful that parents have alternatives for their child’s education today; that you have a voice with the administration of the school (they work for you and with you); that you can pick up the phone to contact the other parents; be grateful that your child comes to you because s/he knows you love and want to protect them.
You’re job is unbearable, the bosses don’t know how to treat people or lead, your co-workers are not team-players…be grateful that you have a job to go to and are making a wage to support yourself/family while you dedicate some time and effort to go somewhere else or do something else; be grateful that you are capable to do more than just work there; be grateful for choice.
Your relationship is over, or ending…be grateful that you loved; for what you learned or are learning; be grateful that you still have you and the universe that have love for you; be grateful for new beginnings, time for self-discovery, a journey ahead that will lead you to something better…growth, a better relationship for you – everything is possible.
Looking at the universal law of attraction, the more you are grateful for the more you will attract to be grateful for. How you think of things is how you will feel about things. Just being grateful for the good in your life, as well as the lessons, growth and strength you will gain from its challenges, puts your mind in a different perspective, one that allows you to enjoy the fact that good things are always with you.
I’ve had times where I was grateful for the electricity, because I spent time without it (and then I was grateful for family with extra room who loved me); for my appliances, because when the dishwasher, clothes washer, oven and refrigerator broke down, I had to go without for a while; for my body, because I witnessed someone who was enjoying his life with vigor who didn’t have any limbs; and for my mind because of its capabilities, imagination and alertness to new opportunity. But the most basic fact that I am grateful for, that often goes unnoticed, is that I love and that I am love – and I always have that to share.
SUGGESTION: Once a day, morning or at night, give yourself the time to list 10 things you are grateful for right now.
Please share something with us now that you are grateful for, in this moment. Sharing helps the rest of see things we may not have noticed in our own lives. Thank you in advance. : )
I’m grateful that the sun is shining today because it makes me feel so alive and happy – everything always seems more hopeful and warm. And whatever happens in life, I always know the sun will return.
For the hope that tomorrow will be better.
I was trapped in an electronics box store by necessary errands the other day. My husband was out of town and I had not planned anything social. I was hankerin’ for some fun–maybe just someone to have lunch with. Usually I don’t ask for frivilous things but… Sure shootin’, two friends showed up and they were heading for lunch. I asked if I could horn in. They graciously said yes and we had a nice time. Providence shows up for me in big and small ways all the time. I’m not sure which I appreciate more!!
Tina –
I’m so grateful for you for teaching me to see. For knowing absolutely everything about younger Wendy and loving me anyway; teaching me to love myself. For teaching me how to take my thinking to a higher place when I came to you with less. And for never minding to tell me the same things over again until I was ready to hear – like the idea of the gratitude list that only took 20 years to take. : ) I am grateful for you every day of my life, knowing that it would not be what it is without your positive, loving influence. Thank you!
Much love ~
Wendy
Today I am grateful for my health. The better I take care of my body, the better my outlook on life!
I’m grateful for my family most of all, but also the support I’ve found outside of my family at a crucial time in my life! It’s nice to know you’re loved.
Today I am grateful for the sunshine. It melts the snow, warms my living room, and calms my being. It rejuvinates me at the cellular level and always makes me smile, no matter what is going on in my life!
I’m grateful for my mind. No matter the “good” or “bad” in it, no matter conscious or subconscious, the power of it continues to grow, providing new beginnings and fresh starts with new perspective, a slight shift, a decision – instantaneously.
You have a BEAUTIFUL mind. : )
I am grateful for you, my friend, and your willingness to be moved by HP to provide an opportunity to add a different perspective to my life. I am grateful for a world of women who are adding so much support, camaraderie, and enlightenment.
I’m grateful for you, my friend. I’m grateful for my mind. And I am grateful for the sunshine. And I am grateful for my family, and yes, I am grateful for my health. I am grateful for Tina teaching Wendy, and I am grateful that I was NOT trapped in an electronics box store, and I am grateful that there will be hope for tomorrow!! And I am grateful that the sun is shining today… But most of all, I am grateful that there are so many people here to remind me what grateful is all about!!
Dehlia – It’s good to see you are able to receive. : )
Some great examples here Wendy. Practising gratitude regularly is actually proven to improve our mental wellbeing. Awesome!
Beth Burgess
Recovery Coach
Sort My Life Solutions
I am grateful for all the beautiful souls in my life! Their light is a constant reminder of who we are and why we are here. I am grateful for my opportunities to reflect that light in return so that they can also see their own divinity. Shine on!