"Gratitude lights up what is already there. You don't necessarily have anything more or different, but suddenly you actually see what is. And because you can see, you no longer take it for granted. You're just standing in your yard, but suddenly you realize, Oh, there's the first flower of spring struggling to emerge from the snow; Oh, there's a deer emerging from the scrub brush; Oh, there's the measuring cup you've been looking for that your daughter was using to make mud pies. It's just your ordinary old backyard, but suddenly you are filled with happiness, thankfulness and joy." ~excerpted from Attitudes of Gratitude, how to receive and give joy every day of your life, by M. J. Ryan.
 

Good morning! What are you grateful for? What little things bring a smile to your face? What ordinary occurrences make you deliriously happy? Take a moment to 're-discover' the everyday subtleties that make you happiest. What cute thing has your child done lately, who phoned after you had them on your mind... Did a late summer flower just bloom?

Your turn:
Today "light up" your thoughts by making an extra-long gratitude list. Keep a sheet of paper with you all day and try to write down at least 50 things by the end of the day. (Whenever negativity surfaces or life gets you down--this is one of the quickest cures.)

Your affirmation:
I am observant and grateful for life's many gifts.
 

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