The attitude of gratitude

There are a thousand blessings that God has bestowed upon us. We are rarely conscious of these - we only complain about what we lack. This adds to the stress and tension of our lives.

So many of us say, "I don't know why God is doing this to me. I don't deserve it." How many of us ever say, "Such a wonderful thing happened to me today. I don't know how it came to pass - for I don't deserve it" Whenever people come to me in a state of tension and depression, I tell them to count their blessings. Not just count them in the mind - but actually write them down and make a list of them. When you actually start making a list, you will surely find that you have a lot to be grateful for.

A group of pilgrims were on their way to a remote shrine in the mountains. The journey was a long and hazardous one. The narrow path was steep and slippery, and progress was slow.

The weather was freezing, and food and water had to be carefully rationed. As the days passed, a feeling of gloom and pessimism descended over the group. It was decided that at the next night's stop, a meeting would be held to discuss their problems.

When the pilgrims gathered around the campfire that night, one of them began to speak. "Before we speak of anything else, let us thank the Lord for His grace and kindness. We have come thus far with no loss of life - and all of us are still on our feet."

Absolute silence followed the simple words of gratitude. No one had any complaints to make. Everyone felt that they were really fortunate to have come thus far. Such is the change, the transformation that gratitude can bring about! A thankful heart enables us to look at the brighter side of life - and get the right perspective.

In all conditions of life, let us thank the Lord. Let us make it a habit to praise the Lord at every step, in every round of life.

In the midst of fear and frustration, worry and anxiety, depression and disappointment, let these words come out of the very depths of your heart - "Thank you, God! Thank you, God!."