I am grateful. I just have to leave it at that. I am not grateful for anything specific, per se. I am just grateful.
I drove my 54 miles to work this morning and, of course, the traffic was horrible. I can’t comprehend for the life of me why drivers in Oregon (and surely other states, as well) don’t understand the purpose of the passing lane! It is quite simple. Pass left. Move right for vehicles that are traveling at faster speeds. If one is not passing, one should stay in the right or middle lane. Simple, but a source of daily frustration.
I am working on my gratittude. It is part of my daily routine. This morning, as I was dealing with my traffic situation, it struck me how grateful I am that my biggest frustration was cars in the passing lane. Life could be far worse. Being slowed by inconsiderate drivers is a negligible problem in a world of hurting people. The thought that this was the most challenging problem I am facing brought a smile to my face. A feeling of gratitude poured over me.
Why is it that we are so prone to letting the smallest slight to our ego cause us to turn negative? I start (nearly) every morning with a list of opportunities, along with my “well-centered fitness” goals, mission statement, and values. I also try to start off with some positive thoughts and affirmations. I am intentional in trying to be positive. Some days, though, it is easy to get knocked off course. Sadly, it doesn’t always take a lot of negative force to disrupt my positive momentum. This shift in gratitude this morning, however, is a breakthrough.
If we just take a moment to consider what is souring our day, we are likely to realize that it is insignificant. Of course, some are knee deep in problems that leave little for which to be grateful. Nevertheless, we can “look for the pony” in our circumstances. Most can find something for which to be grateful.
Shortly after my realization this morning, I stopped to get gas. As I entered the convenience store at the gas station, a young boy was hurrying out of the store. He abruptly stopped and, with a huge smile held open the door. I thought to myself, “There is hope for the youth of today!” As I left the store to return to my car, a second young boy—neatly groomed and sporting a tie—likewise stopped to hold the door. It made me feel good. It was another boost to my gratitude.
There is no particular purpose to today’s post other than the express gratitude for the simple things and for the fact that my life is pretty darn good.
I know things are not so good for many people. All I can say is, “Hang in there, and be grateful.” It may seem that there is no purpose to our hardship. Did deeper and find the pony. Be grateful. Practice gratitude.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!