Posted by:
SusieQ#1
(
)
Date: August 22, 2013 10:55PM
I've had time especially lately, to reflect upon the subject of what I am thankful and grateful for, often sharing my thoughts on FB also.
I have had a very long life with a grateful/thankful list that is extensive.
I've learned the value of being thankful for my upbringing, those that contributed to my inner core values even though my childhood was a mixture of relatives: parent, grandparents, uncle, aunt, step fathers, etc.
Those values, some learned from The Optimist Creed given to me as a teenager, and other concepts, cemented the kinds of thinking patterns that have stayed with me my whole life. I am grateful for a sense of humor, and a positive attitude.
Specifically, in relation to the LDS Church: I am very grateful for the experiences and the opportunities to expand my talents and skills and learn new ones. And for my family. I can't begin to count the list of gratitude, I have for all of them. Those decades were fraught with a multitude of trials and difficulties that I often refer to as: "The Good, The Bad, The Ugly."
When I determined I wanted to change my mind about my beliefs, and leave the LDS Church, walking that very difficult journey, I am grateful for a family that has been predominately supportive, (most of which have left also), even a husband of over 50 years that negotiated our truce to "agree to disagree", remaining a believer to his recent death.
Today, I live alone. It is a very different life as a single female and widow. All of my life's experiences, have in some way, prepared me for these times, although I didn't know it at the time. I am cognizant of how all of my life's experiences have contributed to who I am and how I manage my life. It is probably the most relaxing, peaceful time of my life. I am the director of every day and I enjoy all of it's freedoms.
While I struggle with some health issues, I am thankful that I am able to do almost everything I desire to do.
Each day I can easily find something to be thankful for and that gratitude list keeps growing. I'm a strong supporter of thinking in terms of that which we are thankful for, and having an attitude of gratitude.
If I could bottle it, I'd sell it and be a billionaire! :-)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 08/22/2013 10:56PM by SusieQ#1.