Ok, not really. But this is interesting and so I'm sharing it.
http://www.rd.com/content/the-new-science-of-being-thankful/
What if, instead of wallowing in our misery, we all chose to focus on being valued by a dear friend, for example, or the memory of a colleague’s face when she receives a surprise birthday cake at work, or the smooth ride we’ve had to work in the past week? As science is now proving, feeling grateful can actually make us healthier, literally. Practicing gratitude, acknowledging the blessings in our lives and making it a point to recognize the good things can change us positively. We’ll sleep better and exercise more. We’ll feel more optimistic. We’ll be more alert and active. And if we do this over a period of time, we’ll realize that we’re making progress toward our life goals.
I like this idea. And for the past couple of years, since my life essentially melted down and I had to claw my way back up, I've been making a concerted effort to be thankful for the little things rather than worried about the OTHER little things. And so far it's working.
I'm happier. I'm more centered. I'm a better mom. I don't sweat the small stuff, and I'm noticing more and more that I don't even notice the small stuff - can you notice that you're not noticing? Well, I have.
Other people are noticing too... I was called happy and social the other day. ME! No kidding. Craziness.
So yeah... being thankful, even if it's for a stunningly gorgeous moon rising over the horizon, or the sunrise greeting you when you open your front door... thankfulness tends to create things to be thankful for.
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2 comments:
My memories of your teenage years are that you were funny, social, fun, and smart. I am glad to know that you haven't outgrown those attributes.
A couple years ago my Bible study group discussed keeping a daily 'thanks' journal. It does make a difference in outlook. Funny that recently while I seem to have much more obvious thanks to give, I have neglected the list. Thank you for reminding me!
I've given up "sweating the small stuff," because it was literally driving me crazy. It's so much more pleasant to think about all the good things, even the tiniest good things. I feel better about life, my family, my work EVERYTHING and I think it has definitely made me a more pleasant person to be around.
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