November is often a time of deep reflection on those things we have to be grateful for. Although… at times, it can be difficult to recognize what those blessings are. I have been there. Sometimes I would get so wrapped up in those things I had lost or didn’t have that I couldn’t see the blessings that were right in front of my eyes!
I believe feeling grateful is a choice we make just like being happy! During one of the most challenging times of my life a wise friend encouraged me to write down ten things each day that I was grateful for. It was really difficult in the beginning. I soon learned that my focus was mostly on the negative things I had experienced. Things that I felt were wrongfully taken from me, the things I didn’t have that I wanted, mistakes I had made, loved ones who were suffering and many who had passed to the other side far too early. It took a conscious effort for me to see the positive and good things in my life. I continued to write down those things I had to be grateful for which became easier as time went on. I can testify that it is possible to be grateful in any circumstance!
The three things that helped me to feel grateful:
1. Praying to my Father in Heaven to be able to recognize my blessings.
2. Paying more attention to those people and things going on around me and serving others when possible.
3. Keeping an Eternal Perspective and reminding myself that this life is a test and by following Jesus Christ I can be strengthened to endure the hardships of mortality and still be grateful for my many blessings.
I am so grateful for so many things!!! I cannot say thank you enough to my Father in Heaven for all I have been blessed with!
Be Grateful and Count Your Many Blessings!!!
by Tanya Christiansen
Other related post, ‘Tossed To and Fro’
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!