Do You Have A Gratitude List?

Wisdom Nugget: "Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously; and because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude."
                                                                                     - Ralph Waldo Emerson.

source: Photo pin

                                                                                                       
The dictionary defines "gratitude" as "the state of being grateful: thankfulness". Looking at the word, you'll notice its made up of two words "grateful attitude". Being grateful has to be evident in: the way you say it, to whom you speak it, in the words you speak and just in those, kind gestures, you exhibit which includes your mannerisms.

For some it could still mean appreciation, acknowledgement, gratefulness and honour. Severally we have underestimated the value, gratitude adds to one's life while some people have a hard time expressing gratitude outwardly. For people in this category, sometimes, all you will receive in return is a simple thank you when inside the recipient of your good deed, is welling up and ready to burst into tears of gratitude. Without mincing words, benefits accrue to those who show little acts of appreciation.

Gratitude has been said to mold and shape the entire purpose-driven life. It was Martin Luther king who referred to gratitude as " the basic christian attitude" Today its still referred to as the "heart of the Gospel" It's a personality trait, a mood and an emotion. Think back to a time when you were just so overwhelmed with something someone had done for you and you just had to blurt out a "thank you" That feeling of thanks, of gratitude could not be contained. Would you say the same? I am thankful for;

...the taxes I pay, because it means I'm employed.

...the clothes that fit a little too snug, because it means I have enough to eat.

...a lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning and gutters that need fixing, because it means I have a home.

...the lady behind me in church who sings off key, because it means that I can hear.

...the alarm that goes off early in the early morning hours, because it means that I'm alive.

...weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day, because it means I have been productive.

Beloved, no wonder our nugget says "Giving thanks always for all things. No exceptions. The act of  thanks living. It is gratitude in action. It's a lifestyle. Every little thing in your life that gives you even the slightest bit of joy, every little thing that makes your day a little easier is worthy of true gratitude.

According to Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously; and because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude."