How Does Your Gratitude List Grow?

“Thou that has given so much to me, Give one thing more–a grateful heart;

Not thankful when it pleaseth me, As if thy blessings had spare days;

But such a heart, whose pulse may be Thy praise.”

– George Herbert

As we begin our annual Thanksgiving season, it's time to revise our gratitude list for this year. What are you thankful for? Health, prosperity, family and friends, a home, a job? I'm sure your list goes on and on.

Do you write down all the things you are grateful for, both large and small? What about the reprimand given you by your boss that totally changed your work life from  isolation to being part of the team, a sense of belonging and effectiveness? What about the comment from your husband complaining about your use of time that stimulated developing time management skills that allow you to do more, yet have more time for things you enjoy?

Sometimes we forget that negative situations can be turned into positive blessings that need to be added to our list.  Think about those situations or thoughts this past year that have helped you to grow and become more of the person God created you to be, those things that made you see with a positve heart and brought you peace and joy. 

Write them down on your gratitude list, lest you forget.  Reviewing this list may bring fresh ideas for solving both old and new problems. We actually have so much to be thankful for that we just can't keep it all inside until this special day set aside to give thanks.  Spend time each day in reflection and thanks giving. Your gratitude list is never complete. It grows one day at a time.