What's all the Hub Bub about Gratitude?

​“Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously. And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”
― Ralph Waldo Emerson

I was reading the above quote and for a brief, 'non-shining' moment, I felt self pity! "OH YEAH...well what about the bad that came to me". I was surprised and yet it was the perfect thought because it created awareness. I could tell you stories of my past that would bring tears to your eyes.  I could whine about the struggles of my childhood.  But I won't...because...I have come to realize that without those experiences I would not be who I am today.  Period.  Have you thought about that?  "What if I was raised in luxury?"  "What if I didn't get sick?" Blah Blah Blah.  I have come to a deep place of gratitude for not only every good thing that has come to me, as Emerson so eloquently states, but for EVERYTHING that has come to me. Consider that for just a moment.

Here is an example. My clothing was always second hand. Here I am in all of my mismatched glory! I do remember at times feeling shame or embarrassment but two truths remain: I always had something to wear and I do believe that my compassion for all beings was developed during my challenging upbringing. 

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I encourage you to consider this: What events, past or present, pleasant or unpleasant, have had a deep impact on your life?  Take a moment to reflect what gifts you have received as a result of those situations. Greater commitment to serve?  Inner Strength? A push to seek answers? A new friend? A thirst for knowledge?  I know that gift is there for you! Back to Emerson, "And because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude!" I know that I often forget to give thanks for my challenges. How about you?  

​I invite you to take a little journey with me right now. Let's give thanks for those times/things in our world that created angst, anger, worry, fear and other things that go bump in the night.  Right now...deep breath in...deep breath out...close your eyes...embrace those moments...in gratitude. 

I feel lighter! How
about you?


Namaste!

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