Gratitude

Part Three

grat·i·tude

the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness

Being grateful is good for our health.  It reduces stress and takes our minds off of our own problems.  

Being grateful is appreciating what we have and not what we don’t.  It seems to me the more we have in life the more we are less appreciative.  The less we have the more we are thankful.  

A recent Stuff store visit made me realize how much stuff we all have and most of us don’t want it for very long.  We think that the ‘stuff’ will bring us happiness, but it actually gives us more anxiety.  It’s more to take care of.  

I think of the necessities of life, air to breathe, a roof over our heads, clothes to wear, the warmth of a home, good health, food on our tables, family and friends to share life with, and our faith in God.  We have so much to be thankful for if this is all we have.  We have everything we need. We can’t lose sight of this. 

This Thanksgiving:

• If you have family or friends to enjoy your day with-be thankful
• If you have a car to take you to your destination-be thankful 
• If you have food in front of you and you are satisfied-be thankful
• If you have a coat to keep you warm-be thankful
• If you have a roof over your head-be thankful
• If you have the freedom to express your religion and pray- be thankful

By reflecting each day on all our blessings, thanking those around us for their generosity, and praising the Father above, we will live a healthier and happier life-even without a lot of stuff.  To be grateful takes time in our day.  It takes being quiet.  Our business will rob us of this joy and good health. 

God’s Word-Psalms 86:12

I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart,
    and I will glorify your name forever.