gratitude thinking

Gratitude is an attitude in acknowledgment of a benefit that one has received or will receive. Most people don't think of recieving something positive from pain, and gratitude is a positive emotion. But scientists tell us that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Whatever is taken from you, you will be given this back and more. I truly believe this. So, when I am going through a difficult time, I count my blessings.

Blessings don't have to be monetary, although they can be. They are anything that gives you joy or has a positive effect on your existence. Like the green of the trees against the very blue sky, someone's smile or laughter, getting that dress you couldn't afford at 75% off (yeah). For me, it always has to do with nature, family or shopping. I also truly believe that my efforts to get published will be rewarded and I will move to Atlanta and buy a house and work as a peer support specialist. I truly believe this and I am speaking it into existence. This is the two-year plan I am in the middle of working now.

Let's look at what has happened just in the past year. I wanted to get picked for the core training class for peer supports. I did. I wanted to get picked from the Wellness Recovery Action Plan workshop to actually get a place in the class. I did. I wanted to work for my present employer ever since I decided I wanted to be a peer support specialist. I got the interview. I got the job. I am pleased. God is blessing me and I know it.

This is not to say that I still don't get discouraged or still go into symptoms, but my gratitude is greater than anything I have to face at this point. I am much stronger for the struggle and I never discount that fact...Okay, not always, but I do come around to it.

Gratitude thinking can take you a long way when you think back on the trauma you've been through in a mental illness. But, there is always something to be grateful for. For me, sometimes, it is knowing that I have a roof over my head, transportation, a job I love and want to make my career, food to eat. If you had known me just four years ago when I was still very severely depressed and hoped to die every day, you would be amazed. I am. I am now thankful for every day in my life and I wouldn't want to miss one.

Of course, medication helped bring about this change. But, it can only relieve my symptoms. It can't keep or sustain Joy. Gratitude does that for me.