Originally Posted on 6th August 2014 by Lauren Kinghorn
One of the sure fire cures for those days when I’m feeling a bit down in the dumps, is to count my blessings. I write out a list of all the many things I’m grateful for in my life and it always cheers me up.
Sometimes I send up a prayer of thanks when I’m done with my list.
But I think there’s another step that can add even more power than keeping this just between me and my Creator, who, I believe already knows what is written on my heart: Sharing these grateful thoughts with my loved one’s. And, in particular, thanking those marvellous beings who have bestowed these blessings on me.
We all know that for a marriage to thrive it’s important to show appreciation to our spouses. Yet how often do we tell our husband or wife exactly what we are grateful for? When last did we write them a love note, or greet them at the door with a broad smile and a kiss? Imagine if we got in the habit of greeting our partners with the enthusiasm of a dog greeting it’s owner? Just try it once, for fun, and see if it sticks.
If you are fortunate enough to have your parents still living, when last did you buy your Mom a bunch of flowers, just because… or your Dad his favourite chocolate? Parents particularly appreciate hand-written notes. When last did you tell your parents how much you love them and how much they mean to you?
And your siblings?
And your friends?
It doesn’t have to cost money or be gushy. Why not simply surprise them with a short sweet thank you sms or email?
Now I know where most of us are best at this is with our children, especially when they are very young. It’s somehow easier to lavish love and affection on someone who is too young to have hurt us, or been cheeky to us, or done something naughty or careless.
Somehow, over time, our view of our loved ones becomes clouded by memories of things they’ve said or done, or neglected to say or do. And so we forget to notice just how special and beautiful each person really is to us.
Don’t be that girl…
Count your blessings and then express your gratitude to the people in your life who matter to you. This one act, repeated daily, can save a marriage, dispel loneliness, or repair a broken heart.
Don’t hesitate. Do it now.
This is one of my favourite fridge magnets…
