Thursday, October 4, 2012

Volume 48 - Thankfulness

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them."  John F. Kennedy

This weekend is Thanksgiving in Canada.

This morning, as I lingered in my bed, nursing a fall cold, I was finding it hard to feel thankful.

The social, economic and environmental challenges facing the global community (and our inability to find a unified way to deal with them)  have got me down lately.  Yet I wanted to be thankful, so what to do?

What does the Virtues Project say about thankfulness?

"Thankfulness is gratitude for all the bounties of life.  Expressing thanks connects us to others and brings them joy.  Each day, we find a moment to count our blessings.  Reflecting on the treasures in our lives lifts our spirits.  Thankfulness soothes our sadness and restores our hope.  It gives us perspective.  As we practice thankfulness, we attract more and more blessings, because thanksgiving is conducive to bounty.  Thankfulness is a path to contentment."  Linda Kavelin Popov

Counting my blessings I realize my life is full of bounty, present mood included.  Many of my brothers and sisters around the world don't have time to indulge in the pity party I slipped into this morning.

 I live in one of the most beautiful places in one of the greatest countries in the world.  Everyday as I go about my business I am surrounded by the bounty of nature -- ocean, forest, river, field.  All abound here on Vancouver Island.  I have the bounty of working along side very committed and caring human beings.  People who inspire me to be the best I can be.

As we approach  Homelessness Action week here  in British Columbia (October 11 - 17)  I am aware how thankful I am that I have a home and a bed to snuggle down in whenever I need it.  The right to free speech.  Clean water than comes out of my tap.   The freedom to come and go as I please.

That I have a larder full of nutritious food and a wonderful family to share it with.  That I have the privilege to serve my community and walk along side so many others than do the same.  People who give back, who share their bounty, people who care.

Sitting here propped up in bed, the sun streaming in the windows, reflecting on the treasures in my own life, my spirit is lifted as I realize -- I am truly thankful. (sniffles and all)

Namaste

~ Kate

The Practice of Thankfulness

I have an attitude of gratitude.

I count my blessings every day.

I discern the gifts in my tests.

I am open to the joys of life.

I celebrate my life.

I expect the best.

I am thankful for the gift of Thankfulness.  It makes my life bountiful.

Reflection Questions

How can I celebrate my life?

What treasures in my life lift my spirit?

Who can I express thanks to and for what?