Gratitude has the power to change the lens through which we
view the world, bringing us more joy, health and satisfaction. It’s easy to see
the problems in life, not because we are cynical, but because we are looking
for what we can improve in our lives. The downside to this is that we can skip
over the miracles in our lives, taking the small gifts for granted.
Gratitude is the elemental life force that powers
compassion. We are all intricately connected and as such a practice of
gratitude gives thanks to the interdependence, interpenetration, and mutuality
of living. Gratitude isn’t merely positive thinking; it is a deep
appreciation for life. Contrast can also be viewed through the eyes of
gratitude. Pain and affliction can be released when they are contrasted with
more positive aspects of the now. No matter how small, there is always
something to be grateful for.
3 Simple steps to practice gratitude:
•
Step 1 - Attention - become aware of the
blessings in your life that you may have taken for granted.
•
Step 2 - Tune into the many reasons for
gratitude that exist in our lives.
•
Step 3 - Write it down - Writing is
scientifically proven to be more powerful than simply thinking thoughts of
gratitude.
You can choose to write down one thought a day and place it in a
gratitude jar. Or you may like to keep a special gratitude journal and write
down 5-10 blessings every day.
If you choose to use a gratitude jar, you can amplify the
benefits by sharing the experience with your family. Sharing a gratitude jar
will encourage family members to have a grateful outlook on life. Counteracting
feelings of entitlement, envy, and resentment, which are negative feelings that
push people away from us. A gratitude jar encourages each member of the
family to practice thinking in a positive way that will bring joy, prosperity
and connection into your home.
