Gratitude

Each Thanksgiving a large number of Americans sit around their dinner table and each say something they are thankful for, I've always enjoyed doing this with my family because we can count on a heartfelt five minute speech from mom, Riley's gratefulness for his latest toy/game, and at least one person piping in with some ridiculous or slightly inappropriate comment to get us all laughing.

In that mindset of sharing what we're thankful for, I wanted to share a poem that was part of a talk given this past Sunday in church by a friend. Hopefully it'll help each of us think a bit about not only the obviously good things in our lives, but some of the things that take a little more inspection to identify the benefit.

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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 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's 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--

Labels: family

posted by Brett at 6:04 PM