“The blueprint for how to handle inconveniences and disappointments is to stay grateful in all things, which, of course, is different than being grateful for all things. This is a lesson we’ve all been learning over the last couple of years as the world and our lives have been changed so drastically.
Many of those recent changes have been incredibly difficult—and even devastating. It can be hard to look at the tougher circumstances of our lives and find even a single thing for which to feel grateful. But that’s all the more reason to try.
At the very least, in the face of adversity, we can give thanks for the strength to endure dark times and for the faith to believe in brighter days ahead. When coping with loss, we can feel grateful for the comfort of our memories and the support of family and friends. And when called to acclimate to unfamiliar and unwelcome circumstances, we can be grateful for the gifts of creativity and adaptability that allow us to lead ourselves into a new way of living.
The more grateful we can be for these indwelling gifts, the more easily we will be able to call upon them when we need them most. We’ll always find things to be grateful for, of course. But with the practice of mindful attention, we’ll also be able to feel that gratitude in all things and soar far above that which might have kept us down.”
Rev. Teresa Burton, Daily Word Editor
