Today is for the living
Posted on | September 22, 2008 |
I know it’s late and I should be sleeping, or at least taking a bite out of the Compleat Hitchhiker’s Guide… but so what? Nyah, nyah.
Today is for the living. If you are reading this - it’s your day to be grateful for a whole bunch of things. Like, you’re breathing. You have a computer (and you’re dropping by to check what I have to say). Your car is still running. There is some money in your wallet. You have all five senses. You can change your mind about anything you want in life anytime you choose. If you are alive, you have much to appreciate.
What’s the benefit in focusing on being grateful? Well, while you’re doing that, you will not be:
- thinking about the past
- thinking about the future
- thinking about things over which you have no control
Imagine if you stopped for a moment and enjoyed what you have, instead of pining for what you do not? Would you be happier? I bet you would.
I grew up in middle class America, and it’s common to always be reaching for, wanting, those things that are “supposed to be next”. A bigger car, a bigger house, a bigger family, more money, etc. We’re programmed by lots of things, but most prominently advertising, to believe that we’re unhappy unless we get the next thing, or achievement. Your peers will think less of you unless you have this cool thing… and so on.
I suggest putting down the Frappucino for a moment (OK, that was harsh… but I am serious) and contemplating the things/people you have/do right now, and how much you actually do appreciate them.
My list:
- A seemingly constant stream of new and interesting music
- A large and warm group of friends
- A family I love that loves me back
- My buddy, Mr. President (he’s a cat)
- A job I love
- Creative pursuits that fulfill me
- Some very special friends that challenge me intelligently and support me unerringly
- A brain that does what I ask it to do, and more
- My own goals and dreams
Oh, and Guinness ;)
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