Choose gratitude in your attitude to find more contentment

Choose gratitude in your attitude

Choose gratitude in your attitude to find more contentment

I’ve been feeling tired lately.

Though things have been good in my life, sickness and an overbooked schedule leave me feeling like I want to run away from it all.

Just for awhile.

To be honest, I looked at our ridiculous schedule and felt a pang of resentment. At having no time to do “things” I feel need my attention.

No Bible study, no writing, no creative outlets, no returned phone calls…

And let’s be REALLY honest, (though it pains us to admit it), we feel a teensy bit resentful when things bog down our plans.

A tremendous bit resentful when no one (insert pathetic music mamas will appreciate) even appreciates us and our sacrifice.

“Gratitude, warm, sincere, intense, when it takes possession of the bosom, fills the soul to overflowing and scarce leaves room for any other sentiment or thought.” John Quincy Adams

What does it mean to choose gratitude?

We cry out to God and beg him to remind us that these times are precious. That He would shower down grace to allow us to be bigger than our pettiness.

To open our eyes to the luxury of these things.

Things we chose to put on the calendar. Sure, they feel chaotic at times. Yet, isn’t chaos relative?

“I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness – it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.”– Brene Brown

Tomorrow morning my sister takes her tiny daughter into the hospital for surgery.  A tumor by her brain stem, a Posterior Fossa Tumor. Big words. Big fears

And I again am humbled, deeply brought down low with shame.

“We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.”– Cynthia Ozick

Why is gratitude important?

Chaos is relative.

What would any parent give who has a sick child to choose my meager challenge of a full calendar? It IS stressful to be pulled in too many directions. But I think of my sister. Of the many like her. And I choose gratitude for my life.

I have been in the hospital with a child and no answers. I remember being faced with the truth, God is the only comfort that exists in our darkest moments.

And I pray.

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid–John 14:27

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