There’s absolutely not any doubt that it is easier for many people to be thankful when things are going well in their lifetime instead of when they are not. Yet, it is in these difficult and trying times that enjoying what is still great is of the upmost importance. Sometimes we take for granted the things about ourselves, others, and our own lives that are positive and purposeful.
Keep in mind
When challenges arise, or when you get news of something unsettling about your life or someone you know, or at the Earth, it’s a wake-up call to genuinely appreciate everything exists in your life as it is. Whether inner and/or external, these challenging times aren’t just a reminder of what was beautiful and appropriate in your life, but more importantly, what is right here, right now, this very moment.
It’s easy to get caught up in the days as they are and our expectations and perfections of how things “should or should not” be. You may recognize what is important in your life, but are you currently enjoying what is really of the essence? From time to time you may become fooled by your beliefs, the negatives in your thinking or of what is happening, and end up focusing on what is not exercising instead of the blessings which are still abundant all around you when you feel they are not.
Let’s understand it
Sometimes things seem so totally excruciating, horrific, unjust, etc., you can’t see anything to feel thankful about. There were times in my life where I did not think there was anything to be happy about or grateful for anymore; in which the psychological darkness I felt no light. Yet, there was hope. I became so engrossed with what was happening and the emotional state I was in that I stopped seeing all of the promise that was surrounding me. I challenge you to look again through those emotional times. If you can not see anything, look harder.
Let go for a minute of what hurts or what you feel is causing you guilt, uncertainty, pain, unhappiness, uncertainty, fear, etc. Center yourself and then your focus to what moves you, or makes you smile, or warms YOUR heart. You may or might not be able to do this immediately based on the situation or how caught up you’re on your emotions, but if you take the time, you’ll get those moments of appreciation are not as far away as you thought they were.
Be thankful
You can be thankful for anybody or anything, large or little, and when you’re, a spark of hope and”all is well” starts to return. Being grateful reminds us that there’s still good even in the midst of chaos. If you change your beliefs towards what’s happening, and you’re determined to obtain a those heavenly and precious moments, you’ll find them; they’re right there inside and out of you! If you haven’t already, begin a journal that is thankful.
Each day write down the things you’re thankful for; include some images for more of an effect or heartfelt nudge. When you’re experiencing emotional occasions and having difficulty quieting the endless bad chatter that appears to take over and you can not muster up what there is to be thankful or joyful for, you can look over what you’ve already. Sometimes all it takes is a gentle reminder and you have the ability to become appreciative once more.
Conclusion
Be grateful for your nearest and dearest, your friends, your pets, your sobriety, your car, your job, your house, your bed, your clothes, your shoes, etc.. More importantly be thankful for the freedom to still produce positive lasting memories if only for a day! Being thankful not only benefits you but those around you too. You become an inspiration in your life and the lives of those you encounter. You become more optimistic, lighter, happier, more loving, kinder, understanding, compassionate, empathetic, and grateful. It just does not get any better than that.