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A New Gratitude

I have been thinking about how grateful I am for all the things that make my life better and easier.  Most of us have made a gratitude list at some time, whether it was mentally, verbally, or written down.  You know the drill--think of all your blessings or think of all you have to be grateful for.  If you're anything like me, it went something like this:  family, friends, children, food, shelter, job, health, life, love, faith, maybe material possessions and qualities like determination, courage, honesty, and kindness.   

The things I have been thinking about recently are a little more specific and detailed.  I am grateful for things like floss, toothpaste, running water, pillows, an icemaker, a microwave, the DVR, my stereo, my computer, paper, pens, a garage door opener, bandaids, q-tips, a hairbrush, and so much more.  It is astounding really how many things I could think of once I started looking at what my life would live like without them.  

This is the first time I've ever thought of gratitude in these terms.  I went beyond the basics.  I approached gratitude by actually picturing what if X were missing.   I could easily see how much time, energy, physical strength, and frustration I saved.  It was just as easy to see how I gained in vitality, fitness, peace, content, and pleasure.  I can use my energy and time for things that I really want to do and devote more to creativity and self-care. 

How about you?  Try this and I am sure within a day you'll be picking up a fork and feeling grateful you are not eating with a stick.  Stop and look around whatever room you are in and I am sure you will see at least 10 things that you use all the time and never think of the impact to your life.   I know I didn't until this past few weeks. 

I become more aware of things each day I practice gratitude from this new angle.  My list keeps growing…upholstered furniture, appliances, electronics, curtains, cars, and books (who would I be without books?). 

The important factor for me has been to look at the use of these things in my life and see how they improve my existence.  So I am not just listing "things" but the action associated.  Focusing on the benefit I get from each object is increasing my joy and serenity in life. 

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