IT IS HELPFUL TO MAINTAIN A DAILY ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE, EVEN IN OUR DARKEST MOMENT

We can count, as always, our blessings not our troubles. I believe I cannot happily exist in this world without expressing gratitude. Each day as I struggle or sacrifice or work towards a goal or a dream I sometimes forget to maintain an attitude of gratitude. I get so caught up or wrapped up in what I am doing and my challenges or troubles. Gratitude means thankfulness, counting my blessings, noticing simple things in life, and acknowledging everything I receive. It means also learning to live a life as if everything were a miracle, and being aware on a continuous basis of how much I have been given. Gratitude shifts my focus from what my life lacks to the abundance that I already enjoy. Behavioral and psychological research has shown the surprising life improvements that can stem from the practice of gratitude. Giving thanks makes people happier and more resilient, it strengthens relationships, it improves health, and it reduces stress. Those who practice gratitude tend to be more creative, bounce back more quickly from adversity, have a stronger immune system, and have stronger social relationships than those who do not practice gratitude. To say we feel grateful is not to say that everything in our lives is necessarily great. It just means that we are aware of our blessings. Daily gratitude exercises results in higher levels of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, optimism, and energy.

Shared by Agatha Pratt