Be Grateful

I'm on the lookout for things I can be grateful for, and I strive to show my gratitude.

I try to always let people know I'm grateful, even when they've only "done their job" or done "what people are supposed to do." I like telling people that they've "made my day," and they usually like to hear that. Most people like to know when they've done something wonderful. It makes their world a happier place, and it helps me to realize how happy I am.

This week a pharmacist helped me transfer my prescription (saving me $35 a month), and he made a bunch of phone calls on my behalf. He was a huge help, and it was great to tell him how much I appreciated him. The process could have been much more complicated for me if it weren't for him. Being grateful to him was a positive moment for both of us!

My wife keeps a gratitude journal, which is very smart. I don't know if she ever goes back to read it, but when she uses it, she really has to focus on the good things that have happened in her life. It's a powerful way to encourage positive thinking. And it's a lot like prayer.

Prayer is powerful, too. In addition to praying for blessings and forgiveness, I give thanks. I try to think of new things all the time to avoid falling into a habit of rote prayer. It can help me redefine my day. Instead of going to bed thinking about what a horrible day I had, I can fall asleep feeling blessed. Which I am, no matter what.

Smile At People

I was pulling out of the Trader Joe's parking lot today and a lady walking in front of me looked into my eyes, possibly afraid that I would run her down. I didn't hit her, but waited and smiled instead. She smiled back, which I really enjoy. It makes me happy!

I find that looking at people and trying to then ignore them is difficult and stressful. But a quick smile establishes, in some cases, a small human bond. Some people don't smile back, and that's okay too. But the ones that do make taking the chance completely worthwhile.

Happiness Is A Choice

I've been unemployed since January 2009 and I have a daughter with special needs, but I can always choose to be happy. Happiness is an observable behavior. Happiness makes good things happen.

Actions I take can help me improve my mood. I already prayed, read the Bible, exercised, went to the library, bought groceries and started dinner in the crock pot. Cleaning the kitchen, taking a shower (better late than never!) and helping a friend are good things I will do today that will help me to be happy.

Being happy helps my family. If I'm angry, fearful, or despairing, it makes them unhappy too. I can be honest about my feelings with them and myself, but still behave in positive ways.

I am one of God's children, and nothing that happens to me can ever change that. Bad things will happen, but God still loves me. God's unearned love and forgiveness, God's grace, is the final source of my strength.