With Gratitude
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So I realized I get bothered by certain people. However, it isn't just any type of person...so don't go writing me off as being hostile towards the world. It takes a particular individual to make me mad. Want to guess what type of person it is? If you said "an ungrateful person" then DING, DING, DING you are correct!
I was raised by my Nana who was 72 when I was born. So yes I know you females out there are saying, "I need to have my first child by 30!" Well imagine being 72 and having one. Exactly! It wasn't the easiest task especially with a husband who previously had a stroke and was paralyzed on one side. Yes, I know my Nana is amazing! 
I was secretly jealous of my classmates who were being raised by their parents. I always longed for family road trips, having my dad intimidate any guy who came to the house, cooking in the kitchen with my mom, and yelling at annoying siblings. You know, that whole idealistic "nuclear family" that we all have seen in popular TV shows. My Nana has always instilled in me gratitude because despite all the obstacles we had, God made a way for us. Over time I became more thankful to have her as a caregiver because who knows where I would have ended up.
Years later I continue to have a spirit of gratitude. I try my best to express to others how much I appreciate them. I always keep some stacks of thank you cards so whenever the moment arises I can send it to someone who has been a blessing to me. These Green Inspired cards below are exclusively sold at Target. I love the detailing on the envelope, the front design, and that it is green inspired (chlorine free and use soy ink). It doesn't get any better than that!
I read an article years ago about how people who exhibit appreciation for the little things in life are happier. I am a living testament that it's true! Don't get me wrong, I have my days of sulking and saying...."Ughhh not another problem...why me?...*insert other complaints here*.." But my new attitude has become, "Why focus on the negative and crap you can't change? All it does is create negative energy and nobody has time for that!
Every night I exercise gratitude by writing on a post-it what I am thankful for that day. I just throw them in this tin can and in a year I plan on opening them and reliving all those happy moments. I suggest this activity for you if you feel stressed or find it hard to see the silver lining in life. It forces you to think about the highlight of your day, which can be really encouraging after a rough day. These notes can be some of the simplest like, "I'm grateful for the stranger I saw on the train who smiled back at me." Try it out for a month and let me know how it impacts your life!
What activities do you practice to stay positive?
Who taught you gratitude?
