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| A Scottish west coast beach...by paddle stroke. |
The act of both writing and reading these words is proof positive that we are alive - a reason for gratitude! Oh, I know, life's never quite "perfect", or sometimes anywhere close to it. The headlines are filled with events and situations that threaten peace and harmony and diminish life - and there is no shortage of those who will point this out to us. Instead of pointing only to the storm clouds, however, we must look beyond to the sun. Even amidst the struggles and the times we all stumble and fall, we are alive and we are capable of doing better. Gratitude helps us back up, encourages us, and reminds us that the next moment in time is filled with new possibilities that are within our reach.
There is no greater contributor to "happiness" in life than living with gratitude, one precious moment at a time. We don't have to be well off, or well-established, or well placed. We don't have to plan for it or reserve time for it or strategize how to do it...we just EXPRESS it, one moment at a time. Life doesn't have to be well-ordered, under control, or even hospitable...gratitude can survive in a virtual vacuum. It's good "medicine" with no contraindications or side effects. There are no downsides. Feeling gratitude is win-win..every time.
Gratitude comforts, strengthens, inspires. It freshens, rejuvenates, enlivens, and heals. It takes the power out of heartache and helps to dry our tears. It amplifies joy and nurtures peace of mind. It transforms life's dark and uncertain horizons into "blue sky" days. It seeks the best for others and warms the hearts of all around us. It expresses love and reflects compassion.
Gratitude empowers us, enriches us, and makes every good thing possible.
It takes us from the narrow, darkened valleys, and places us on the summits. Gratitude gives us brilliant perspective...to see earth, sky, and sea, and one another, with much deeper appreciation and respect.
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| Joan, on an English Lake District summit...by footstep. |
Wishing you peace and gratitude-filled days, throughout this brand New Year. :)
...and thank you for these thoughtful words Duncan. It's true, we have so, so much to be grateful for. A very happy New Year to you both - have a great 2015!
ReplyDeleteWarm wishes
Thank you, Ian. I know you'll recognise that little beach, we're so thankful for those days on the water last year. Warm wishes to you and Linda throughout this New Year. Duncan.
ReplyDeleteThank you Duncan for putting into words perspective on gratitude. We sometimes forget. Best wishes to you and Joan for a Happy and fun filled 2015.
ReplyDeleteJ
Hi J, thank you for taking the time to comment. We all forget every now and again. And sometimes it's just simply difficult to feel gratitude...but it's always worth the effort, and there are always lots of reasons. If I've got the correct "J", enjoy that AZ sunshine. :) Warm wishes to you both. Duncan.
ReplyDeleteYes, you have the correct one. It's been nice and sunny but cold in the 50's with heavy frost at night, however we go back to the 70's next week. Can't wait for that to happen.
ReplyDeleteJ.
Hi J, sunny and cool here too. The stars are out and the moon is getting big...but we won't be going back the the 70's - for a while. :)
ReplyDeleteI've read this blog three or four times now. I love what you've shared about gratitude. I'm trying to practice it as you've suggested and it's quite interesting. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteL
Hi Linda, thank you for your affirming words. I think living with gratitude is exactly what you say...it's a "practice". I'm sure for most of us, it takes a degree of discipline. Like the daily run, however, it more than gives back the effort required. :) Warm wishes to you. Duncan.
DeleteHi Dunan I could not agree more. 2014 was an up and down year for me but as you acutely observe, a feeling of gratitude for the gifts of life also helped me through the darkest days. Roll on 2015 :o)
ReplyDeleteHi Douglas, thanks for stopping by. It's so true, isn't it, living with gratitude is an "aid to navigation" in life...it gives us a healthy perspective of both our position and safe course. Warm wishes to you and lots of great paddling in 2015! :) Duncan.
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