Saying grace before a meal, appreciating some one's action or being glad that the weather turned more comfortable are some ways to be grateful for. But if one writes them down on a regular basis, its therapeutic value magnifies exponentially.
Having a Gratitude Journal is one of the "tools for the healing journey" I started using since I learned about it through Hope Spring, a cancer support center in Waterloo, ON. It is also advocated in the book Simple Abundance by Sarah Ban Breathnach. This is an activity that one can start anytime- today or tomorrow with the minimal equipment: a writing tool and paper. Start by writing 5 things you are grateful for...everyday.
There are so many things for which I am grateful for: family, friends, situations, things. But I did not realize how much until I started writing them down. I remember the time when I went back to work in ER after my surgery, there were some rough days when I was both mentally and physically exhausted. But as I wrote down the things to be thankful for that day, I immediately started to feel much better.
When I do this daily exercise, my awareness to my surroundings heightens. I notice people who do the most inconspicuous random acts of kindness or situations that make my day a little easier. We take a lot for granted that we sometimes forget the value that something or someone holds.
It's been a year since I started this blog as a means of sharing my life's journey with family and friends. For those who have chosen to accept this open invitation, I am grateful.
1 comment:
I give thanks that people tell me, "you look like your mother," instead of "you look like your father" (sorry, Dad).
Mum, you've always been an inspiration and role model to me. When are you going to move to Halifax?
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