How To Be Grateful When...

 How can you be grateful for things when you feel sad or depressed, not valued, not important, not enough?

That is a good question. 
Today, I am finding myself in this predicament. 

What is getting me through this type of situation is the knowledge that Heavenly Father loves me and that His Son, Jesus Christ, has suffered and died for me (and each and every one of us). For these facts, I am extremely grateful. I know that They value me; They consider me important; They think I am enough just as I am. 

If you believe in a Supreme Being, even though you might call Him/Her by a different name, rely on your Supreme Being. 

If you believe in Nature, watch a sunrise, a sunset, the stars in the firmament, or the rain as it falls. Find the beauty around you and express your gratitude for such creations. 

No matter how bleak life might seem in this point in time, it will pass. This situation is not permanent. It is just a glitch that will soon disappear. If nothing above works, just be grateful that time will pass and will take this moment away. 

If you find yourself that these sad moments are more frequent that your good moments, please seek help. It is not a shameful thing to turn to specialists (and their prescribed medicine) that can help us through this rough patch of life. You are not alone and you are not meant to go through this alone. Ask for help.

New Name

 Given that the last post was written quite a while back, I have changed the name of the blog to just "Gratitude."

In our heart, we should be grateful every day for our lives, the people in it, the blessings we receive; hence, "365 Days of Gratitude," the original name of the blog. However, given that many things are very personal, I have chosen to post on this blog only once a week. I hope that my thoughts will reach you when you need it most, to give you a spark of gratitude even in the direst circumstances. 

Today, I accompanied my mom to the hospital for a consult. As we were waiting, I observed the people around us. Many were older individuals; however, there were a few that were young, way too young to be in the oncology department. In this mortal life, each of us has been given an imperfect body. Some ailments are less serious than others. Some make you wonder if our Father in Heaven (or whomever you believe in) loves you and why He has permitted such grave afflictions. 

As each of us is different in how we process challenges, I cannot tell you what you should be grateful for. I can only share my personal thoughts of gratitude.

I am grateful that I am able to accompany my mom and be with her in this stage of her life. 
I am grateful that I know our bodies, although imperfect in this world, will be resurrected to perfection in the eternities.
I am grateful that medicine has come a long way in helping people heal or, at least, cope with an illness.
I am grateful for the support groups that are available for those who need them. 

As difficult as your circumstances might be, strive to find one thing to be grateful for. Gratitude, has a way to make us feel a little bit better.