Gratitude and growth

One practice that I consistently see as a way to a fulfilling life is that of expressing gratitude. When we are expressing gratitude, we are acknowledging the gifts that we are given. We remind ourselves that, at any given moment, we can see what is good in our lives. Sometimes it is as simple as being grateful for the air we breathe or being able to get out of bed. There are people who keep a gratitude list and add to it each time there is something to be grateful for. Then, when life isn't proceeding quite the way they would like, they read their list and it transforms their current state of mind. When we express gratitude we are opening ourselves up to new opportunities because we are decluttering our negative thoughts. You can choose at this very moment to find something to be grateful for and focus on that thought. How do you feel now? What just happened to any problem you might have been having? If there was a shift, you are now open to new directions which will bring about personal growth. Before writing this blog, I was focused on a negative relationship with someone I know. This consumes positive energy. After writing this blog, those thoughts are no longer present. I am grateful for what occurs when I focus on my writing. It is as simple as that. What can you express gratitude for at this very moment and what difference will it make when you do?