Attitude of Gratitude

As the season of Thanksgiving is upon us (or "Thanksmas," since many folks, including myself, have already decked the halls for Christmas!), I just wanted to share a little of my heart, and encourage you all to have an attitude of gratitude.

Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible.  In other words, with gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives.  Scientific studies abound illustrating the positive impact gratitude has in the lives of people, in the home, and in the workplace.  For me, gratitude -- for my husband, my home, my job, and my two awesome little boys -- has been life changing.

Four years ago, at this time, I was coming to terms with the MRI results for our four month old son that showed an abnormality in his brain, particularly in his cerebellum.  I spent hours researching cerebellar disorders, and with every Google search I had more fear and anxiety over my son's future than I care to admit.  I wish I could say that at that time I was grateful for everything we were experiencing, but that would be a lie.  I was angry, frustrated, and scared.  I shed many tears.  But soon, I came to the realization that my fear and anxiety was taking away from precious moments with my sweet baby boy.  I decided to focus on everything I was grateful for, and guess what?  I discovered I had SO much to be thankful for!

Not only was I fortunate enough to have the basics covered: food, clean water, shelter over my head, but I also had access to first class medical care.  In addition, doors were opening for Ryker left and right, which helped our family get answers to our questions FAST.  The MRI that was going to take at least 30 days to complete due to scheduling issues?  He was seen in 4 days.  Facebook, the world's largest social network that I can complain about for 1,000 different reasons?  It connected me to other parents across the globe experiencing similar issues with their children, leading to answers for our son.  Finally, we were (and still are) surrounded by amazing family and friends who fill our lives with support, love, and most importantly, prayer.  A prayer-filled support system is perhaps the piece I have been most grateful for on this journey.  Prayers work.

I know there are times when life seems overwhelmingly difficult, and you may not think you have much to be grateful for, but I promise, if you seek gratitude in your life you will find it.  For gratitude takes what we have and turns it into enough.  And that's good enough for me!

Today I am thankful for soap and water, which provided hours of entertainment for my boys!

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"In every thing, give thanks..." ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:18