Cultivating an Attitude of Gratitude

I have come across various articles or talks in the recent past about the difference gratitude makes in your life. Rick Warren, the pastor of Saddleback Church and author of The Purpose Driven Life (now read by over 50 million people, such as Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps), had an interesting recommendation about this topic. He suggested in one of his online talks that people make an actual gratitude list.

I had never done that though I purposefully cultivate a sense of gratitude. So, some items on my new list are things I thank God for regularly. Others are often unexpected little gifts that take place spontaneously – seeing a beautiful sky, a call or text from a friend, a great memory, an animal doing something funny, or whatever else makes my day brighter. It is amazing how appreciation and gratitude over even little things can reframe an attitude. They also inject joy into life – and who of us can’t use more of that?

So what would make your list as we leave summer behind and move into the fall? Think of not only the “big” things like a special summer vacation or trip, but also the “normal.” There are kids, for example, who would give almost anything to have better health, good eyesight and sharper mental and physical agility. Any children’s hospital can attest to that. Most of you probably take these for granted. If you do, be intentionally grateful.

You can also include friends and loved ones, your home, and so on. Everything in life that makes for safety, security, love, friendship or opportunity are all candidates for your list. Make yours – and I hope it expands your own appreciation for what is around you. Just take a moment to identify it!