See What Gratitude Can Do For You

Sometimes we think that life should be easier.

After all, it looks easy for others.  Comparing ourselves or our circumstances can be a dangerous dalliance, especially if we compare with a purpose in mind—either to make ourselves look better or worse than those around us.  “Juliana is better looking.”  “Gordon is more creative.”  “Her husband is richer.”  “His wife looks and cooks better.” “Why am I just like this?”

The seed of jealousy is planted.  Let the others have their good points; you have yours.  You may not be able to visualize them right now, but someday, when you are feeling good, make a list of your good qualities and the positive factors in your life – and save it for the next blue day.  Simply be thankful for what you are and what you have right now.

When the “if onlys” attitude hit, take action before they have time to bury themselves deep into your psyche.  Do something.  Get busy.  Perhaps you’re just bored rotten.  Physical activity, work or exercise always helps.  Think until you come up with one thing (or quality or condition) you’re glad to have.  Then do something for someone else.  Call a friend you know is down, help with something around the house, smile more.

A friend once told me, “Life is too important to be easy.”  You can’t maintain a constant state of happiness—nobody can.  But the harder you work at gratitude and the sooner you dissolve the “if onlys,” the better you’ll feel.  There’s no limit to how high you can soar in joy, once you’ve unclipped your wings.