What have you been thankful for lately?

Out walking the dog this morning I was feeling sorry for myself. It seems it has been a season on being unwell. "What am I thankful for this morning?" is part of my usual morning musings as we walk. "I am thankful that I do not usually have all these health problems! I am thankful that because I am normally healthy and pain free this seems bad but it is a short-term problem - many deal with much worse on a daily basis. I am thankful that there are researchers and scientists that have dedicated their lives to developing medications and treatments for so many different ailments.

The sky is blue and the sun is warming the earth where a couple of weeks ago the excessive rain caused flooding and heartache. Now the area is greener than green and the scent of flowers blooming and freshly mowed lawns fills my head with warm summer memories.

As my exuberant dog tugs on his leash I am grateful for his not-so- gentle urging to get out and walk. Without him I could have, and likely would have, curled up on the couch with my book or newspaper. But, due to his yearning big brown eyes we are out on this glorious summer morning receiving smiles and waves from neighbours as they start off on their daily pilgrimage to work. We hear the morning songs of the birds as they busily flit overhead. The squirrels chatter and teasingly scamper up and down trees and run along the overhead wires. A couple of rabbits hop along a safe distance ahead checking over their shoulders occasionally to see whether we have given chase. The air is still cool and crisp but has the promise of warmth in every breath. So much to be thankful for.

Gratitude is miraculously infectious. The more you think about it the grander it becomes. The more you recognize the things you are thankful for the more thankful you become for the things you have.

Challenge yourself today to list ten things you are especially grateful for. Share your list with others, especially if they are on your list of gratitudes! Imagine if we were all able to change our focus daily from what we don't want, to being thankful for what we have and are working toward... Think of the potential.

By living in gratitude and joy everyday you will inspire others.

What have you been thankful for lately?

Barb Shanahan is a Registered Nurse and Personal Life Coach Her passion is working with women who are seeking balance between their work and personal lives, and who have a desire to find and fulfill their spiritual life purpose. Sign up for one of her free teleseminars or find out more about Her Activate Your Inner Coach program at YourBestLife@shaw.ca