An Attitude of Gratitude

Oct 18, 2010 by Peggy Nolan

If you follow me on Facebook, you know I’m setting aside time each day to simply appreciate, be grateful, and be thankful for all that I have. I started small – five minutes before going to bed I’d write in my gratitude journal. I broadened out to facebook by asking others every other day or so what they’re grateful for. The responses are the usual – friends, family, health.

Can you dig deeper than that? Why exactly are you grateful for your friends? Is there one friend in particular who’s been there through thick and thin for you? Why exactly are you thankful for your family? Can you state clearly what is it about your family or a family member that you appreciate?

This past year my family has experienced loss in a profound way. We watched my sister-in-law’s health deteriorate, we prayed for the right organ donor for her, and when a match couldn’t be found, we gathered in a circle of love as she breathed her last breath.

Four months later we said good-bye to my beautiful 27 year old nephew who died in a tragic accident. His loss was so unexpected, so sudden, and completely earth shattering. My sister, his mother, will never be the same again. Losing her son was a crushing blow.

Recently, a sister stepmom friend of mine nearly lost her husband. He’s not completely out of the woods, but he’s home and my friend is experiencing the grace of appreciation in every waking moment. From the seat of her soul, she completely understands what it means to be grateful, to appreciate, and to be thankful for each and every moment you spend with someone you love.

Can you get past the superficial and get down to the nitty-gritty? Can you get past the small stuff and stop complaining long enough to reflect on what you have?

I believe that in life, we create our own experience. Just by taking a few moments every day to appreciate what I have, I create a better experience for myself because I’m focused on the good, the positive, and the abundance of love I have in my life.

 Now it’s your turn.

Are you ready to focus on all that is good in your life?