Every year around Thanksgiving, I take time to reflect on all the things I have to be thankful for.
Many people focus on the negative and they practice having a victim mentality. Nothing is ever their fault and they are experts at making excuses. These people are usually not happy, nor are they particularly fun to be around. They like to complain about everything that's wrong and how bad they've got it.
I've heard it said that if everyone were to put their worst problems in a big pile that most of us would creep forward and gladly take our problems back. Once we see the obstacles faced by some, most of our problems are minuscule by comparison.
One of the best ways I know to be happy is to spend a little time each day giving thanks for all the good things in your life. When you practice having an "attitude of gratitude", your focus shifts to the positive. Since we get more of what we focus on, it only makes sense to look at all the gifts you already possess.
Here are just a few of the things I'm thankful for:
Water - It quenches my thirst, soothes my body, and keeps my clothes clean.
Electricity - It allows me to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Lighting - It makes maneuvering in the dark a whole lot easier.
Modern Transportation - It allows me to explore the world. Just imagine how difficult it would be to visit someone across country in a stagecoach!
Food - To me it's not only a necessity, it's a great source of pleasure. Most people eat to live. I must admit I am sometimes guilty of "living to eat" especially around the holidays.
Books - They allow me to learn and expand my knowledge.
Television - Programming that's entertaining, informative, and educational.
Telephones - They allow me to speak with loved ones who don't live nearby.
Computers - They keep me organized and in touch with the world.
While these things may seem like basic necessities to some, they are luxuries to a large portion of the world and I feel so lucky to live in a time and place where these things are abundant.
Some other things I'm thankful for are:
Great Music and the ability to hear it
Blue skies and the ability to see them
Sunny days
Beaches
Palm Trees
Smiles
Iced Mochas
Creativity
Family
Friends
Flowers and the ability to smell them
My Kitty Cat
Laughter
Butterflies
Good Health
Modern Medicine
Free Will
Dark Chocolate
Good Restaurants
Rainbows
Sunsets
Green Grass
Ice Cream
Amaretto di Saronno
Art
Photographs
Memories
My husband, who's love, patience, and kindness continue to overwhelm me. Someday I hope to become as wonderful as he thinks I am.
These are just a few of the many things I'm thankful for. Now take a moment to think of all the things you're thankful for. Counting your blessings is a great attitude adjuster; it lifts your spirits and puts you in a joyful mood.
Make sure to tell the people who have helped you how much you appreciate them. And the next time you run into one of those victim types, be sure to smile and give them an encouraging word. Sharing your joy is an excellent way to give something back and to perpetuate the "attitude of gratitude".
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