Gratitude

Buddha said,
“Let us rise up and be thankful, for if we didn’t learn a lot today, at least we learned a little, and if we didn’t learn a little, at least we didn’t get sick, and if we got sick, at least we didn’t die; so, let us all be thankful.”
I hope you laughed when you read this because I did. Truth is sometimes this life is so stressful that we overreact to every small problem or challenge that comes our way. Being grateful is the perfect antidote to this negative habit. When we notice what we have rather than what we lack, we are more optimistic, happier, and better problem solvers.

Consider some of these gifts we often forget:

A strong and healthy body
A mind that can reason and problem solve
The beautiful world of animals and nature
Friends that make us laugh and enrich our lives
Family members that love and support us at all times
The blessing of work
Delicious food
Safe shelter

November is the perfect month to start a gratitude journal. Be observant to all the wonderful things and persons in your life. Write a note of appreciation to a close friend or buy a cup a coffee for a co-worker who always is willing to help you. I promise you will feel encouraged and more content with life as you develop an attitude of gratitude.

And remember, after a really crummy day, as Buddha says if you didn’t die, there is always the hope that come with a new tomorrow. .