Posts tagged family

“Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses.” Alphonse Carr certainly had the right attitude about life. There are times in my life that I have found myself moaning about something in my life for which I should be grateful. It is possible to discover the gratitude attitude instead.
1. Be present. It’s a beautiful season, here in East Tennessee. The leaves are changing; the air is crisp. I had not noticed ANY of this until this week, when I finally slowed down and took it all in.
2. Say thanks. Every day I notice how little our society says “thank you” anymore. It seems we have a sense of “entitlement.” No one owes us anything. Nothing. We should be grateful to others for any kindness they show us.
3. Be grateful.  List everything for which you should be grateful. I’m grateful for my family and friends, for God’s love and generosity towards me, and many other reasons. Sometimes when something is bothering me, I focus on that and get unhappy. I’ve been accused of being a Pollyanna (thanks, Kate!), but in reality, I have had some rough times. Really rough times. I just have chosen to focus on what is right in my life. Does that mean I never get discouraged, that I never get down? Quite the contrary! I can complain with the best of them. I have just noticed that I am happier (and my family and friends are happier) when I focus on the positive. Nothing may inherently change about the situation, but my attitude will make a big difference.

Some people argue that a positive attitude does not help; I disagree, because I have lived both ways.  Being positive is infinitely better.