The Grace in Grateful, Day 7

Today is Day 7, the last day of our gratitude adventure. I hope that you continue to express gratitude each day, in your own way, and experience the grace you feel from appreciating the good in your life. You cannot feel completely hopeless and unhappy when you are acknowledging the things that make you feel warm and sunny even in the midst of turmoil. There is always light even in what seems like chaos and extreme adversity. If expressing gratitude isn’t enough to lift your spirits, try adding a sprinkle of kindness. Do something you know will help someone in some way. Doing acts of kindness to lift your own spirits does not diminish the act of kindness or the benefit to the receiver of it.

You control your thoughts, emotions and actions. You are not a victim of them. Feeling joyful isn’t a prize you win if you’re lucky. It’s a choice determined by the thoughts you decide to hold versus send away, a willingness to believe you are worthy of everyday happiness and a commitment to taking actions consistent with joy. This means limiting time with people that suck the life out of you, cutting out activities that you say yes to when you really mean no, and prioritizing you and your feelings over others. This isn’t selfish. Most of us who are nurturers do not have appropriate boundaries and when we take care of ourselves we feel selfish. Ultimately, your health, well-being and spirit, depend on your commitment of self-care. Nurture yourselves. Nourish your spirit. It’s the only thing that truly makes you feel rested, energized and fully ready to help others.

Getting enough sleep doesn’t help when it’s your soul that’s tired. Feed your spirit, for it is your fountain of youth.

Be kind. Be grateful. Be well.

Today, on day 7, I am grateful for…

1. having a house that needs cleaning when the words aren’t flowing so well
2. safety
3. choosing adventure over anxiety
4. my passion to help others
5. choosing to love and be loved

Hugs, happiness and love to you,

Lisa Z.