Gratitude

Practicing the art of gratitude is one of the key things to learn on your pathway to joy. Gratitude enhances a person's self concept and outlook on life. Paying attention to even the smallest things can transform emotions from negative to positive energies. When you have "one of those days," you start feeling the negative energies take hold of you and then everything seems to go wrong. The negative energies will continue to increase as long as there is more focus on the negative energy. However, once you start practicing gratitude, the energy shifts and harmony returns.

The negative energy someone else is experiencing can also influence the people around them. Have you ever been in a line waiting for the cashier and there is someone that is grumpy because of the long line and wait? Soon you can visibly see the others in the line getting restless, irritated and agitated.The cashier's attitude starts to be effected by the negative energy as well and the frustration mounts. The wait seems longer as things seem to happen such as no bar code, or a spill, etc. Even the apologies from the cashier are greeted with angry looks or comments. When one person positively acknowledges the situation and says something in gratitude or presents even a simple smile, suddenly the positive energy shifts the environment. The cashier's tension visibly decreases. The frustration, impatience, and anxiety diminish. Things start to flow smoothly again. It is amazing how a simple smile and thank you can be so powerful in these situations. Try it the next time you are in a similar situation and watch the magic occur. Remember to try and put yourself into that person's shoes and note how you would like to be treated

Be observant in your environment. When it is a cloudy day, look at the clouds and notice the beauty of the various formations. When it is raining, observe the raindrops and how they are absorbed into the thirsty ground for nourishment. When it is snowing, be aware of the miracle of each individual flake. When it is a sunny day, notice the warmth and brightness that allows plants and flowers to grow. When it is windy, pay attention to how the birds play in the drafts floating effortlessly. Be grateful for these wondrous miracles that surround each of us every day.

As you become more aware of the beauty that surrounds you on a daily basis, it becomes easier to see the positive of various situations that you may face. Look at each individual as a special unique person and yet know that we are all one in this world. We are all connected and face similar challenges of life. Start truly "seeing" with your heart and appreciate this uniqueness as well as the oneness in each person.

*Practice saying thank-you to all you come in contact with in this world.
*Practice saying thank-you to the beauty of nature.
*Practice saying thank-you to yourself for the wonderful person that you are in
this world.
*Practice the art of gratitude.