Gratitude
I have read and heard so much about gratitude the past couple of years, it seems to be a catch phrase. While working on an article for a magazine recently, my assignment was to write about a person, place or thing that has inspired me this past year with the most gratitude…..
Having spent many years in the Church, I am keenly aware of catch phrases–those words which are generalized and can be used or misused to “fit” the situation at hand, such as “grace”, “purpose”, “ministry”, “blessings”…..so I began writing about gratitude and discovered some Godly insight about the true meaning of the word.
Gratitude is somewhat of a spiritual awakening, not particularly inspired by a person or event in our lives but rather, something from within which causes us to be more aware of small acts, words or moments, opening our hearts to embrace and our eyes to see the significance of momentary beauty, like time standing still…in slow motion…the movement of the leaves on an autumn colored tree, the whispers in the gusty October winds, the warm smile of a friend, or the comfort of a hot cup of cocoa, warm mug in hand.
Gratitude happens from within and manifests itself in our outward countenance. It is understanding that the glass is half-full rather than half-empty during times of sacrifice and trial.
At our lake house there is an elderly gentleman who can be seen walking, cane in hand each day on the main road. The extraordinary thing about this fellow is that he exudes a spirit of gratitude. He smiles and waves at each passerby and locals have come to love his cheerful countenance. Come rain or shine he puts on a smile, picks up his cane and walks and waves.
Often, I have wondered what secret he possessed that would make him so blissfully cheerful! Gratitude has a face. I suppose if I am grateful to anyone at this moment it would be this man who inspired me to study his countenance and look deeper at the real meaning of gratitude. I can only aspire to be such a shining example of spiritual awareness and security. I imagine that he has walked through some valleys in his long life and recognize that we must all walk through valleys in life to truly appreciate the mountaintop.
Gratitude is acknowledging and understanding from deep within our souls that life is a great gift and that we have twenty-four hours in each day for which we can be grateful. True gratitude is a process of inner spiritual growth, awareness, and recognition of what God has done for us.
Find something to be grateful for today. Gratitude reduces stress. It’s hard to feel stressed when you are giving thanks. Try it! If you are going through stress, praise God and give thanks during the storm.
If you are interested in digging deeper and practicing the discipline of gratitude, my Gratitude workbook is an excellent addition to carry with you on your journey.
Your turn. Will you share what you are grateful for today???
Hi Mary, I adore how you put your thoughts into words. The next two Sundays I have posts planned/written but in 3 weeks I will link to your site after that as a place of encouragement.
One thing I did notice is that when I click on “Comments” to leave one it takes about a minute and half to load. I think perhaps people are simply leaving without a comment because of the wait time. Perhaps you can investigate why this is.
Thank you for the heads up, Laura. I wonder if it’s because I have so many images to load. I hope it won’t deter you from coming to read and visit.
Bless you, sweet Laura.
Today I am especially grateful for my
Beautiful daughter, Elizabeth. We have
Lived together since 2004. For the first
5′ years my health was very good. We went to Church together, out to dinner
at least once a week, went on trips and
had so much fun. We had our moments,
but they were over quickly. In 2009,my
health declined rapidly. She became my
Caregiver and I was in awe of the way
she took over all my needs. I never dreamed that I would be unable to do the smallest personal things for myself.
She is a Christian. We have 2 fur babies. I love her so much. Of course, because she is so kind and caring for us, but she is this way with everyone.
We say I love you several times daily.,
It is true.,I love her not only because she is here for me always but because
she truly loves me. We have peace in
our home. I thank God day and night
for Elizabrth. I thank God for giving me
a precious daughter who loves me and
for making our home a happy, peaceful
abode. I am so grateful to God for my
“Baby girl” and I am so grateful to Elizabeth for her love and kindness ❤️?
This is beautiful,Loe. Thank you so much for sharing. It blessed my heart.