The Phenomenon of Thankfulness

Recently on Facebook I decided to only update my status with things I’m thankful for. These are the six posts I made in six days about things I chose not to complain about, but to find the good instead. Below you can find the story of how it came about.

“Thankful for the lawn I had to mow – it means I have a house to live in.”

“Thankful for long hours at work bc it means I am employed.”

“Thankful today for the piles of laundry around me – it means I have clothes to wear.”

“I am thankful for the water bill to pay – it means I have clean water unlike many who’ve got no drinking water.”

“Thankful for the car maintenance and gas fill-ups – I have reliable transportation.”

“I’m thankful for great friends and family. The relationships you have are the foundation of your life – cherish them!”

A few things prompted this parade of thankfulness. The first is an homage to my grandmother Betty who always used to thank God for the dirty dishes we were washing because it meant we had food to eat. My generation has grown up as one that is spoiled and generally takes things for granted. My grandparents lived through wars and the Depression. I’ve grown up with her voice in my ears and wondered – how much do we take for granted every day that truly is a luxury and a blessing? How much do we waste of what we have and complain about what we don’t have?

When I was younger my mother would require me to write a “thank you” card to anyone I received a gift from. I think this not only caused me to have good manners, but helped to cultivate an attitude of thankfulness in me. Often, in my day to day errands or chores I stop to thank God for whatever it is I’m doing – or for my home, my clothes, my family, the weather, or whatever comes to mind. I believe it blesses and honors God when we are gracious and thankful for His blessings in our life.

I’m not attempting to brag about what I do, but I earnestly desire that this somehow inspires you to not just stop and smell the roses, but to be thankful for them as well. Make an effort to thank God for something each and every day. Thank others in your life for what they do for you. Live every day with an attitude of thankfulness and you’ll see that you become a more positive person!

+dF

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