It’s easy to feel grateful when things are going our way, when we are in the flow — with an abundance of friends, good health, financial wellbeing that makes us feel blessed by a loving universe.
But how can we hold that space of gratitude when we are experiencing lack, feeling as though our lives are missing whatever we think we need to feel complete, happy, centered?
It’s during these times of uncertainty and fear that it’s even more important to focus on even the smallest things that make us feel grateful to be alive, that help us to shift our thoughts, energy, and feelings so that we can continue to believe in and create an abundant life.
A friend, Jerah Coviello, says about gratitude, “practice makes permanent.” So true. I’ve discovered that keeping a gratitude journal for the last eight years, writing three things that I am grateful for each day, has seen me through many tough times. I now have several books filled with proof that my life is, indeed, abundant. One lesson that I’ve learned is that the more I’ve focused on and expressed the blessings in my life, the more reasons I have to be thankful.
While I may not be happy about everything that happens in my life, time has proven that if I can just trust that whatever is happening is for a good reason, painful or stressful events often turn out to be beneficial.
I choose to shift my thoughts and express my gratitude in the midst of what may feel like an undesirable situation, even if I have to “fake it ‘til I make it” because I know that ultimately I will always ‘make it’ if I’m able to live my life with an open, loving heart and the awareness that things work out for the best – whether I see it at the time or not. A grateful attitude helps me to get to that place more quickly and easily.
What are the things, people, or situations in your life, for which you are most grateful?
Thanks Linda, for reminding us that just because things don’t always go smoothly doesn’t mean we have nothing to be grateful for. I am so lucky that there are so many people willing to help with things that are a challenge. We have resources to use so that we are not overwhelmed. I am grateful for generosity and kindness.
Blessings.