Gratitude Changes...Everything

Gratitude: Accept each moment for what it is, that afterall is the root of all happiness.

by Michael Corthell

The simple practice of saying, ''Thank you!'' changes our lives. The wisdom of the ages teaches us: As we count our blessings, they multiply — many times exponentially. Gratitude sharpens our awareness of God and draws us closer to Him. It opens us to receive and appreciate our own divine goodness.

''Gratitude is the sign of noble souls.''
— Aesop

It has been said by many people throughout human history, “If the only prayer you say in your life is ‘thank you God,’ that would be enough.'' Yes, gratitude means saying thank you.

When we count our blessings, when we notice simple pleasures, and when we acknowledge everything that we receive, we are blessed. We learn to live our lives as if everything were a miracle (it is!). We are aware of how much we've been given. Gratitude shifts our attention from what our life lacks to the absolute abundance all around us.

When we are grateful we experience less depression and stress. We are more likely to practice charity and respect others. We also are more likely to take better care of ourselves. And much more likely to set and achieve personal goals.

Try this exercise. Just sit for a moment and imagine losing some of the dearest things and people in your life. Maybe things that you've taken for granted; your family, your home, your ability to see or hear, your ability to walk, anything that gives you comfort.. Now, imagine again, this time getting them back, one-by-one. How do you feel? Now anticipate this feeling, feel the expectation of all the future goodness that is about to come your way.

''You don't know what you got 'til it's gone.''
— Big Yellow Taxi

Gratitude comes from within us. But its power is doubled when we share it with another.

Just saying thank you will change your life. Gratitude changes EVERYTHING.

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The one thing all humans have in common is that each of us wants to be happy, says Brother David Steindl-Rast, a monk and interfaith scholar. And happiness, he suggests, is born from gratitude. An inspiring lesson in slowing down, looking where you're going, and above all, being grateful.