We live in a go go go society, always being pushed to go farther, faster, and accomplish even more. And in many ways, this is a requirement. If you don’t push your limits, you get left behind. It’s the nature of the beast.
However, there is no better time than Thanksgiving to “stop and smell the flowers.” To take a few moments, some deep breaths, and meditate on all of the blessings that you have been given. Ponder the following points, and see if your gratitude level rises up a few notches.
Are You Alive?
If you are reading this post, I will assume that you are alive. Wow! What an amazing accomplishment! Think back to all those times you did stupid things that you miraculously survived. Think of all those friends and loved ones who’ve passed on and aren’t here to celebrate Thanksgiving with you this year. All of the souls who’ve lived and died, and will live and die in the future.
Yet, here you are, in this magical moment of time, experiencing the joy, pain, and excitement of consciousness. Each day is a wonderful blessing and opportunity, and the fact that you woke up today is something to be truly grateful for.
Are You Healthy?
Do you have all of your legs and arms? Can you walk? Can you see? Are you free from terminal illness? Maybe you are in amazing physical shape, and maybe you aren’t. But if you can answer these questions with a yes, then you are blessed, my friend. Never take your health for granted. Eat delicious healthy food, move your body, drink lots of fresh clean water, get into nature, and thank God everyday for a healthy existence.
Do You Have People You Can Share Love With?
Are there family and friends in your life who you can give your love, and receive as well? Do you have people who you can be there for in times of need, and who you can count on when you need a helping hand? If so, cherish those people and be very thankful. Our companions through this life whom share our ups and downs is what makes this journey so extraordinary. Be very grateful for the people in your life, and take really good care of them.
If you don’t have these people, look around you. There are billions of humans starving for love and companionship. Get into a service mindset and figure out what you can do to help others along their life’s path. Give, give, give, and you will receive more than you could ever imagine.
Do You Have a Roof Over Your Head and Food On Your Plate?
We are so fortunate to have been born into this country at this time. America is the richest place on the planet. I’ve traveled all over the world and have seen extreme poverty. Some of these scenes will rip your heart out, and remind you of just how good you have it in the United States of America. If you have a roof over your head and food on your plate, always remember how many people across the world are desperately praying for these things right now.
A Choice
Gratitude is a choice. It is simply a matter of what you focus on. When you focus on what you have, and show deep and honest thankfulness for those blessings, then you will live in a space of love and contentment.
To be clear, I love ambition. I’m all for striving to create and accomplish amazing things. Ambition is the driving force of the world, creating all of the wonderful arts, products, and institutions that exist.
But it is possible to exist in both worlds. On one hand, being extremely grateful and aware of all of your blessings and fortunate circumstances, while on the other hand continually striving for more.
So, this Thanksgiving, take time to meditate on everything that is beautiful in your life. Share some love with those closest to you. Develop a service mindset, aiming to help those in need around you. Our world is far from perfect, and we must fight every day for the truth and freedom of those living in it. But always remember, as you continue the fight, just how blessed you truly are for this opportunity at life.
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Happy Thanksgiving,
Andy Eversole, C.H.
