Week of Thanks 2012, Day One

I've been thinking a lot recently about gratitude and thanksgiving.

I know you are thinking, "Imagine that. At this time of year? No...you don't say."

Yep...seriously. True story. :)

Facebook and other social media sites have been jammed full with friends and family counting down to Thanksgiving by posting each day about the things they are thankful for.

I've watched closely and found myself "ditto-ing" many a sentiment. Some a bit on the shallow (although still valid) side and others very deep and meaningful.

As I get older and am exposed to more of the world and the people in it, I am in awe of all the opportunities and blessing the Lord has given me. And yet, I find myself nearly unable to express my gratitude, even to Him. It's not that I'm not grateful, it's just that I don't FEEL I am as grateful as I think I ought to be.

That's why I've been searching, pondering, and praying (SPP) about these particular topics.

I wish I had my own words of wisdom for you on my findings. It's just not so.

 Frankly I think I'm out of words of wisdom. I've been wondering if the mission I had, in starting this blog, has been fulfilled and so the gift of wisdom and openness has left me.

I haven't figured that out yet. Something else I'm SPP-ing right now.

No worries, however. Until I figure out what is going on, or until I get my groove back, I thought I might share with you a few words from those who are far wiser than I, on the ever allusive topic of happiness, thanksgiving, gratitude, life, etc.

I kinda jumped the gun with this one the other day:

Photo from Your Homebased Mom

 I don't know who said it....but I love it.  It's my motto.  What I desire.  Who I want to be.

This next one was quoted by someone I love and admire more than words can express.  A man of God.  A man who "knows":

"Anyone who imagines that bliss is normal is going to waste a lot of time running around shouting that he's been robbed. The fact is that most putts don't drop, most beef is tough, most children grow up to just be people, most successful marriages require a high degree of mutual toleration, most jobs are more often dull than otherwise. Life is like an old time rail journey: delays, sidetracks, smoke, dust, cinders and jolts, interspersed only occasionally by beautiful vistas and thrilling burst of speed. The trick is to thank the Lord for letting you have the ride." --Gordon B. Hinckley (originally said by Jenkins Lloyd Jones “Big Rock Candy Mountains,” Deseret News, 12 June 1973, A4)

What more can be said.  "The trick", the key, the path to life and happiness is Gratitude.  Expressing our sincere thanks to our Heavenly Father for his goodness and mercy.

I don't know how many times I have said, or thought, to my children, "A little thanks would go a long way."  "Now what do you say (when I have done something for them)?" or "How hard is it to say 'Thank you'?"

And the Lord desires no less from us.  It's so easy.  And when we do it, our hearts become full and free.

Wow.

Love it!

Now I must Think....Learn.....Do.
 
 P.S. I love to hear from you!
Leave a comment or e-mail me at melaniesmethodicalmusings at gmail dot com