By Bonnie & Phil Parker
It’s really amazing how much has been written about gratitude. Some examples include: “Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” John F. Kennedy was quoted as saying, “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” Eckhart Tolle says that “Acknowledging the good that you already have in your life is the foundation for all abundance.” Charles Schwab said: “The way to develop the best that is in a person is by appreciation and encouragement.”
No doubt you can relate to this and our overflowing gratitude to live in a beautiful setting, with wonderful people, with health, good fortune and freedom. There is no beginning or end to what we two appreciate. We are grateful to have each other, and for waking up to a new day and whatever unfolds. We have access to social media which allows us to stay in touch with friends and family far away.
Being grateful for what we have opens the door for other possibilities. One of our favorite quotes is by Oprah: “Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.” Gratitude simply multiplies. The more you acknowledge and appreciate what you have, the more of it shows up.
There are so many ways to express and exhibit gratitude. Speak words of gratitude to those who offer a service. “Thank you,” “I appreciate your help,” “you have no idea the difference you made.”
Related: Thanksgiving Is the “Superbowl” of Gratitude
Grateful action is equal in importance. Bonnie loves to send unexpected thank you notes and buy balloons and place them at front doors or attach to mailboxes! She brings chocolate to our next-door neighbor (he’s our handyman and we both express and demonstrate gratitude for the many ways he rescues us). Phil loves taking pictures and expanding his photographic efforts. He expresses gratitude every time he does a family photo session. He takes his guy friends out for breakfast to express gratitude for their friendship and companionship. Both know that every expression or act of gratitude returns as our way of showing love toward others.
We count our blessings and freely express love. We know the value of connection. We know no matter what is going on outside of us that is out of our control, we have unlimited opportunities to make a difference. We can impact the lives of those whose lives touch ours. Uncover multiple reasons to express gratitude and your life and others will be enriched. We are grateful to you, our readers!
Read more at www.BonnieAndPhil.com.
