Gratitude
A year ago at this time, my dad went into the hospital. What started as persistent chest pain turned into a heart attack that resulted in the implementation of three medically coated stents to help keep Dad healthy for a long time to come. I am grateful, every day, that there was a second chance for my dad, and my family. It’s not a cliché that life is short–it is a fact. Awareness of this fact makes the ride a lot more enjoyable–your eyes may be open just a little wider and you’ll see so much more.
Are you paying attention to your life? I mean, really paying attention? Or are you just running the race to get to the finish line? Are you taking care of your health, or just cruising through lazily, blindly believing that “it won’t happen to me” or “I’ll start tomorrow”? Are you calling your grandma once in a while to let her know that you love her and admire her, or just putting it off til you have more time? Are you smiling at passersby (it’s so easy to do!) or making the effort to avert your eyes and purse your lips and pretend you’re the only one for miles?
Often we tend to think we are much more important than we really are, or that we have more control than we really do. Everyday tasks tend to overshadow the beauty and blessing of everyday tasks.
When our hearts are open, there is so much to be grateful for. And so many simple yet unforgettable ways of expressing gratitude. Try a little more each day and see what impact it has on your mood.
4 Responses to “Gratitude”
Comment from bridgett | perideau designs
Time January 26, 2010 at 5:56 pm
A beautiful well written post. It really made me think.
Happy life anniversary to your dad!
Comment from lesley
Time January 27, 2010 at 10:20 am
what a lovely post. it rings very true to me at the moment, as my family has been dealing with a major string of illnesses and such things. thanks for the reminder, and i’m so glad things went well for your dad.
Comment from Emily
Time January 26, 2010 at 3:35 pm
What a wonderful post! Thank you for this.