Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude
As Americans we believe that we have a right to
happiness – not just the pursuit of happiness – but actual happiness. The fact,
however, is that we find happiness within ourselves by feeling gratitude for
what we already have. Accepting what is; appreciating our blessings; focusing
on what we have rather than what we wish we had.
At one of my first Al Anon meetings while I lived in
Hong Kong, one of the group suggested that whenever we felt down, to consider
making a gratitude list. Sometimes when I was in the depths of despair I would
go through the alphabet and try to list one thing that began with each letter
for which I was grateful. Sometimes it
was hard. However, with practice it became easier. After completing many such lists, it became
commonplace for me to feel gratitude for every experience whether it be
positive or less than positive. This
keeps me grounded and happy.
Today I feel gratitude for everyday things – waking up
in the morning - feeling good is a
bonus! I appreciate having a husband I love despite his idiosyncrasies, cats
that are affectionate even if only to solicit wet food, a comfortable albeit
dusty house, operational transportation including a convertible, heat in the
winter and A/C in the summer, wine, a job that I like with a flexible employer
that appreciates my talents, opportunities for artistic expression, the chance
to watch the birdies in the back yard, a fabulous cadre of girl friends, a yoga
practice that keeps me relaxed and spiritually healthy, and loved ones who
won’t allow me to take myself too seriously. I appreciate the beauty of my
environment including the sunrise, sunset, and the view of the mountains in the
distance during my commute home, when the pastures of cattle come into
focus. It brings me peace and serenity.
And I appreciate my peace and serenity.
To feel gratitude is to appreciate what is.
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