Embracing Life
Attitude of Gratitude
Eric Hoffer, writer and philosopher said, "The hardest arithmetic to master is that which enables us to count our blessings."
Have you ever felt like everything in your life seemed to be going wrong and your prayer was to receive a break? I have. It is during those tough times when it is difficult to remember, much less tally, the many miracles we have already been granted.
Learning to appreciate the sunrise on the way to work was my first step in recognizing the amazing power found in gratitude. I drive east as the sun's first rays glare into my car's window. I can remember when I would shove down the visor, stiffly squint and almost curse at the blinding bright light.
On an extremely chilly North Florida day, everything changed. My morning began like most others, except there was a layer of frost on my windshield. I turned on the heater, but since it was so cold outside, the ice melted very slowly. I began my usual trek, only this time the sun's warmth was inviting. For several moments, I stopped, basked in its warmth and experienced an unusual calmness.
Ever since that serene wintry daybreak, my routine is very different. Regardless of the temperature, I pause daily to absorb the peaceful energy and give thanks for God's gracious gifts. My attitude about the limitless possibilities attained by showing gratitude continues to cultivate.
Arriving at work in a tranquil state helps to counteract the tension, which sometimes feels like a thick fog ready to engulf my co-workers. In today's tumultuous times, stress seems to saturate everyone's senses. Despite the trials and tribulations brought on by the economic downturn, many opportunities to be grateful still abound.
Until recently, sweet tea was a small benefit provided by the cafeteria for the faculty. Since it was free, I developed a habit of partaking in the caffeine and sugar filled refreshment. Cups and tea are no longer available, so I returned to drinking water, which is healthier.
Recycling ink cartridges and soda caps provides funding for the school where I work. Doing so reduces waste and teaches students to be resourceful. A campaign to turn off lights in classrooms and offices to reduce energy costs, served as a personal reminder. Raised in the years following the Great Depression, my parents and grandparents repaired and reused broken items. The failing economy will provide today's youth an opportunity to learn about conservation, something our generation failed to teach.
Learning how to be grateful for the small things is an invaluable emotional resource when faced with larger challenges. My daughter embraced a roadblock in her life's plan and was the personification of perfection in maintaining gratitude.
Her goal was to give birth at the Birth Center, in a quiet setting, surrounded by family and friends. Instead, her son was born by an emergency cesarean section at Alachua General Hospital, while her husband (Adam) suffered at home with the swine flu. Exposed to the H1N1 virus on the day of Owen's birth, Loni, her newborn and I were isolated for five days. Rather than being bitter, Loni was grateful to the doctor who saved her life, relieved that Owen is healthy, and cherished the day she reunited with Adam.
Many studies confirm the power our minds hold in positive thinking, affirming and manifesting our true desires. The journey to achieve those goals may take longer than anticipated or a different path, but along the way we learn lessons and experience unexpected meaningful events. Gratitude is a key component in bringing our requests full circle.
A group of individuals from many different religions began The Living Spiritual Teachers Project. On their website (www.spiritualityandpractice.com) they define the basic practice of gratitude as, "a state of mind and a way of life ... an underlying structure that helps us construct and make sense out of our lives. Its syntax reveals a system of relationships linking us to the divine and to every other part of creation."
It is my daily practice to praise God for my family, friends and colleagues. I express gratitude for my employment and thank Mother Earth for the four seasons.
By counting my blessings, I am blessed. §
Donna Bonnell is a freelance writer who moved to Newberry in 1983. She enjoys living and working in the town she now calls home. Donna@towerpublications.com
