-Pema Chodron
I am thankful for so many many things it would be so difficult to name them all. As I go along in life, I realise the importance of practicing and cultivating gratitude...for everything. Of course all the major things like good health, family and friends. But...also the things I normally take for granted. Like fresh air, clean water, an amazing poem, sunlight dancing on water, a perfect cup of tea. But I am finding-more and more-that it is equally important to be grateful for what, in the past, I have perceived as negatives. You know...plans that have gone awry, betrayals, disagreements, things we have worked so hard for that just fell through... smallness of heart (either mine or anothers'). I realise that all of these things, as well, are our teachers and bear gifts for us. It's difficult, I know, when you are smack in the middle of pain and heartache, to go "gee, what are the gifts I can take from this experience??" But those gifts are there...precious and waiting...and it's the practicing of gratitude that allows us to receive them. I promise.
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