Practicing gratitude is not a new idea.
“Count your blessings” has been a thing for a very long time.
It has been written about, talked about, sang about and practiced for thousands of years.
In no way am I trying to present this as a revolutionary idea, but I do think we would be happier if we did it more. I know that for me, when I neglect consciously choosing gratitude, I slip into negativity much more easily.
Today I wanted to share what I’m grateful for. I try, and fail most days, to write three things that I’m grateful for. This morning though, I did it.
1. I’m grateful for my wife. She is a kind and deeply empathetic person who is radically committed to our marriage, being a great therapist, and making the world a better place. She supports and encourages me and helps me be better than I am.
2. I’m grateful for friendships. I have people in my life who I could call if something terrible happened. My family isn’t local and the friendships I’ve formed give me a support network that is invaluable.
3. I’m grateful for parks and trails. I love being outside and being active. I feel more alive when I observe nature. Where I live, there are trails to hike, run and bike that I had no part in making. Somebody else made a contribution that I get to enjoy.
There are a million other things to be grateful for, and hopefully I’ll do this again tomorrow to fit some of them in.
What are you grateful for?
What are some things in your life that you didn’t arrange for?
Who are some people that have encouraged or currently encourage you?
Try three things. Write them down.
I’m grateful you took the time to read this, and I hope it helps!