Life is a spiritual journey that takes many forms. Whatever comes our way, we must see the good in it and keep our hearts open to every experience. If we want to live an empowered life, we must project gratitude for all our life lessons. Years ago, I gave programs on positive thinking to women who were homeless and jobless. Despite their circumstances, they wanted to learn. I was humbled by their gratitude for what they had. They gave me the simplest of gifts—pictures cut out of discarded magazines, a single rose purchased from a street vendor, and pictures they had drawn. They had nothing, yet they found something to give. I was inspired to keep on teaching them. Like these courageous women, we can all do a little better for one another, no matter our circumstances. Isn’t it true that when someone shows his or appreciation, we want to give more to that person? The universe works that way, too.
When we get in the habit of giving thanks for what we experience on our life path, when we acknowledge the blessings that have been a consequence of these experiences, that’s when we acknowledge the most empowering connection that exists between human beings and Divine Spirit. We no longer sit at the sidelines, waiting for something to happen. We become conscious, creative participants in life.
Further, we can never fully receive anything that we do not already have within ourselves. If we want more love, then we must practice the art of love. If we want more friendships, then we must first practice being a friend. If we want to be thanked and appreciated, we must first express gratitude and feel it at a deep level. It’s all about reciprocity.
How can we learn to practice more gratitude?
- Say “yes” to the goodness of life. Quit being a “doom-sayer.” Stop complaining about the state of the world. Don’t make a habit of creating daily exchanges filled with fear, blame, and doom. Use auspicious language. Encourage others to be thankful for being alive and for all their experiences. Count your blessings!
- Find ways, no matter how small, to thank others. I write tons of thank you notes, and wherever I go, I show up with a compliment. I’d rather receive a compliment from someone than a fancy hostess gift. At the next party you attend, take an affectionate or caring compliment. Tell your friends how much you appreciate their sense of humor or their graciousness. Don’t ever assume people don’t need to be thanked. That’s a need everybody has, whether they admit it or not. When you learn to get the words out, their energy will circulate back to you.
- Use the Law of Attraction. Don’t you always feel more inclined to give more to someone when they’re enthusiastic and appreciative? Consider the times you’ve helped a friend or employee and were overwhelmed with thanks. Did it make you want to give more? Of course it did! “Like attracts like” is a scientific principle at the sub-atomic particle level. Put this principle to work in your life every day!
Give thanks for all you are, for being part of that limitless, magnificent, empowered relationship we call life. Let’s affirm:
“With each breath, I expand my love and gratitude for the many opportunities that await me. Today offers me a chance to live in appreciation of all the blessings in my life. My thankfulness is my true state of being. I create positivity with my thoughts, actions, and words. I am grateful for the abundance that sustains me during my life lessons. I am alive with vitality and enthusiasm. I am grateful for everyone and everything.”
Every Blessing,
© Charlene M Proctor and The Goddess Network, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
For more affirmations, read The Women’s Book of Empowerment:323 Affirmations that Change Everyday Problems into Moments of Potential. Click Here to buy.
