The Adventure of Thankfulness

For the past few years I’ve been doing the “30 Days of Thankfulness” challenge, posting what I’m thankful for each day of November. Maybe next year you can join me in this adventure or at least the rest of this month? This simple exercise has had an interesting result—it brings the entire year into focus.

Somehow, intentionally taking a few minutes each day of the month of November to think about all I’m grateful for has put everything into perspective. Gone are the bah-humbug thoughts of sickness, frustrations, and let-downs I’ve endured these past twelve months—or at least lessened them.

I’m grateful for the little things. The beauty of the deer that are munching on my lilac bushes while I write this. The wonder of technology that allows me to sing and play and read and blow kisses to my granddaughters in far-away South Africa. The warmth of a nice home when it’s one degree outside! The colors of autumn, and the many friends I have through personal contact, church, work, Facebook, and this blog.

I recently read these ideas about thankfulness and thought it was inspiring. I hope it’s a blessing to you. Enjoy!

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire,

If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something

For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.

During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations

Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge

Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes

They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary

Because it means you’ve made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.

A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are

also thankful for the setbacks.

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles

and they can become your blessings.

—Author Unknown