More Thoughts on Gratitude

Another one of the very helpful tools I received from working with my sponsor is an attitude of gratitude. Gratitude is a great tool for me. It helps me beat the blues and keep going. I spoke of my gratitude list in my first book, and I list it throughout this book as a tool as well. In the following journal entry, I describe how I used gratitude to get myself through a challenging day.

God help me to always be grateful. God, when I’m rageful, resentful, or blue, please help me to remember to be grateful to you for all I have. Help me to remember to read my gratitude list. I have so many great things on that list. I have a great life. I have my wonderful, merciful, forgiving, patient God, my health, a beautiful home, a great job, fabulous family, and friends. I have my music, my book, my instruments, art, and creativity. The sun is out and there are flowers in my yard. I get vacations. Life is truly wonderful.

The other day I was running late for the dentist and when I did finally get there, it didn’t go well. I don’t brush right and the hygienist sure let me know. I got specific instructions. Okay, fine. I’m not perfect. And I pay the price. Ouch.The dentist, hygienist, and secretary were very nice. I did get a lecture about how badly I’m brushing my teeth but… I guess you can’t have everything.

The issue with being late for the dentist led to me being late for my private students. I have the best parents in the world because they were both so flexible and understanding. The dentist, hygienist, and secretary did everything they could to accommodate me and help me get out the door to my lessons. I appreciate all of these people and I am lucky to know them. Plus I raised my lesson prices and none of the parents that are employing me have blinked an eye about it. I am grateful.

The other day, a friend of mine was sharing with me about how her in-laws are already asking for money from her recently deceased husband’s estate. They are also asking her to forfeit her share of some of the money as they are having financial issues. I was horrified at their inappropriate behavior.

This, however, is a lesson for me. It’s a reminder for me to always be grateful for what I have and give freely to others, whether it’s time, money, or labor. It means taking 12 Step calls when they happen and giving people the time and ear they need. Thank you God for helping me to be empathetic, patient, and compassionate. Thank you God for taking away my greed and selfishness.

I urge you, brothers and sisters, to watch out for those

who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary

to the teaching you have learned. Keep away from them.

~ Romans 16:17 (NIV)

One can never have enough gratitude to God. He gives us everything and is everything.