Three Gratitudes

What does it take to be happy?

There was a report on the news last night that actually answered that question.  It came as no surprise, though, to discover the suggestions:  be grateful, offer praise, and reflect.

I have, throughout this cancer journey, found great relief in that I can find what’s “right” in my life.  I don’t know if this is something my parents taught me – or something I learned in the classroom as a teacher to not just survive the bad days, but thrive.  Whatever the origin, I am grateful that I have this mindset.

Once again, I am reminded of my parents’ words to me, “Stacey, you need to count your blessings”.

This is something I heard over and over again.  So – I do.

It is too painful to focus on the negatives and it only serves to dig me into a deeper hole.

Imagine – if happiness could be achieved by simply changing a thought pattern?

Actually, it makes sense.

The brain is such an amazing organ.  It can actually re-wire itself to form new neural pathways.  It’s almost like the brain has a mind of its own.  And thinking patterns that most often used are the ones that are more closely fused.  The patterns become “entrenched”.  In following, then, the more often a person is grateful, the easier it becomes to be grateful.  On the other hand, the more often a person is negative, the easier it becomes to be negative.

It snowed again this morning.  In fact, there is a blizzard happening outside my window as I write this post.  It is April 23rd.  The robins are a bit snow-struck.  The school busses are late.  Sigh.  I am being put to the test.

So, I need to put my money where my mouth is.  Here it goes.  I am grateful that –

1. I have a roof over my head

2.  I have food in my belly and;

3.  I have an ability to be able to stay home from work.

Yes.  There.  Happy?

Now – let me just check on how late those school busses are running!