“Gratitude bestows reverence, allowing us to encounter everyday epiphanies, those transcendent moments of awe that change forever how we experience life and the world.” 17th century English author John Milton
Was thinking about what I wanted to bring you today. I knew the time to post was long overdue, so I took a look at a number of topics you might find interesting and meaningful.
Even started writing a psychobabblish beauty. Eh, but no – it just didn’t feel right. Seems I wanted to write something very simple – from, and to, the heart.
As the week rolls on, here’s a quick message about gratitude.
We both know if you’re visiting chipur, there’s a pretty good chance you’re in the midst of some sizeable suffering. A mood and anxiety disorder education and recovery blog, right?
The present nemesis could be a nasty collection of heightened mood and anxiety symptoms. But I’m thinking you could toss a variety of miseries on top of the already hairline-high rubble.
Don’t get sore at me, but I’m going to be daring and offer a suggestion (a strong one, at that). In spite of how horrible you may feel, I want you to find even one small measure of gratitude.
Come on, surely there must be something in your world for which you’re grateful. The love and warmth of a family member, significant other, friend, or pet? Your physical or spiritual health, in spite of your emotional and mental woes? A sunny day (or even partly cloudy)?
I deeply believe in the power of thought when it comes to managing our emotions and behavior. ‘Course whether that’s to our advantage or otherwise is entirely up to each of us.
I also believe in the power of hope – and its eternal existence, even amidst the most desperate of circumstances and times.
chipur reader, manage your pain – I know you have to. And give it every ounce of energy you can muster.
But stretch every mind muscle you have to come up with even one small something for which you can justify a slice of gratitude. And run with it.
You’ll be all the better for it. Promise!
(Just a mid-week thought, ya’ know?)
More chipur Feelin’ Better articles? Here ya’ go!
Thanks for the reminder about gratitude. I agree and have put it to good use to handle my own challenges with depression. Depression, as with most mental disorders, causes us to dwell on thoughts that often are not even true. Dwelling on gratitude can mean switching to some true thoughts and for me works like a switch! Off with the lies, on with the truth. And the result? I feel a little better already.
Thank you, Wendy Love. Nice post. Ain’t easy to come up with – gratitude. But I’ve found it sure beats the alternative. Please keep coming back…
Bill