G is for Gratitude

My life took a drastic turn when I first heard of the idea of a Gratitude Journal and then put the idea into practice. A Gratitude Journal is simply that: a journal one writes in daily listing (usually) at least five things one is grateful for that day.

The things you list can be profound (health, love, family) or trivial (great parking spot at the store, an uncrowded bus on your commute to work, no bruises on the apple you brought for a snack). The point is that there are truly many things to be grateful for even in your worst of days. For example, every one of you reading this woke up this morning. Many people around the world didn't. You are able to read this post. Many people around the world can't read the most basic of words.

Once I started counting my blessings by keeping a Gratitude Journal, I realized how very fortunate I really am. It's humbling and uplifting all at the same time to come to that realization. I may not be rich. I may not be known by a lot of people. I don't have a glamorous career. But I have my health. I have a body that works and moves it as I will it to. I can see the beauty of nature. I can hear my loved one's voices. I can speak with kind words of love to those around me. And I am here. I have been given another day and the chance to make a difference in my life and hopefully in other's lives as well.

Give gratitude journaling a try for a week. I think you might find it just as moving and impactful as I have.