Practice gratitude daily from "summary" of Life Is a Verb by Patti Digh
Every morning, before I even get out of bed, I name the things for which I am grateful. This simple practice sets the tone for my day, reminding me to focus on what is good in my life instead of what is lacking. It is easy to get caught up in the negative, to dwell on what we don't have or what we wish were different. But when we take the time to acknowledge the blessings we do have, no matter how small, we shift our perspective and cultivate a sense of abundance.
Gratitude is like a muscle that we must strengthen through regular practice. The more we exercise it, the stronger it becomes, and the more naturally it comes to us. When we make a conscious effort to notice and appreciate the beauty and goodness around us, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities. We become more attuned to the simple joys of life – a smile from a stranger, a warm cup of tea, a beautiful sunset – and we begin to see the interconnectedness of all things.
By practicing gratitude daily, we train our minds to focus on the positive, even in the face of challenges and adversity. We learn to see setbacks as opportunities for growth and change, rather than as insurmountable obstacles. Gratitude helps us to cultivate resilience and a sense of inner peace, even in the midst of chaos. It allows us to approach life with a sense of wonder and curiosity, rather than fear and doubt.
When we practice gratitude daily, we not only benefit ourselves, but we also contribute to the well-being of those around us. Gratitude is contagious, spreading like wildfire from one person to another. When we express our appreciation for the kindness and generosity of others, we create a ripple effect of positivity that uplifts and inspires everyone we encounter. Gratitude is a gift that keeps on giving, nourishing our souls and connecting us to one another in profound and meaningful ways.
