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![]() Gratitude
Gratitude: A Short Story It is rainy today in New York... the kind of misty rain that hangs rather than falls. Driving to work after an appointment, we had to wait to make our turn because of a man crossing the sidewalk. He was a quadriplegic, maneuvering his wheelchair with each exhale of breath. Heedless of the mist -- and unable to do anything about it anyway, he maneuvered over the curb. I was simultaneously struck by both his grace in moving through his challenging life...and filled with gratitude that I haven't been given that cross to bear. I said a quick thank you to the man upstairs. I find myself expressing gratitude like that many times each day -- and I believe my life is richer for it. What role does gratitude play in your life? I'd love to hear from you! ~Deborah Paul Writes: Deborah, I read your story about the man crossing the street. Your thoughts and comments are exactly what I think when in the same or similar situation. I'm thankful for what I have: myself, my family, and my job. Although not as successful as you are, I can honestly say, "Thank You" at the end of each day because my life has truly been blessed. Also, I'm a big fan of yours. Without you, I probably wouldn't watch the show, but don't spread that around too much... :0) Paul - I agree with everything YOU say, except one thing: your definition of success. It's not measured by fame or notoriety. but that ability to say "Thank you" at the end of each day! Eric Writes: Deborah, I have to say there are many time in my life where the moments of reflection hit me and I am thankful and filled with gratitude. I am married to a Cuban woman that has been in this country for well over 30 years and we have two wonderful children. My wife humbles me daily, gratified by such small things that we take no notice of as Americans. I am grateful that I live in a country such as the U.S.A and have the freedoms we do. I am grateful that no matter a person's country of origin, color of skin or religion we all have the same chances of enjoying a wonderful place such as the USA as long as we obey the laws and take an active role to make this the best country in the world. Roger Writes: Dear Ms Norville, Gratitude to me has been a source of strength. "Every good thing comes from God" and having an appreciation for those things has been a tremendous blessing. I once read that something like 90% of the convicts on death row had no heroes, no one they looked up to, nothing they hoped for. To have those things takes gratitude. 'Gratitude is the beginning of greatness' (-me). I figured that out after getting back on my feet for the gazillionth time. I realized I had pulled myself up by my hopes and dreams. It was being grateful for the little things that was the lift-off. Knowing that my burden in life is not as heavy as the next guy. Complete gratitude is showing thanks, and serving others however possible. Bill Writes: I think gratitude is a forgotten concept in most people's daily life. I am glad God promised to never give me more than I can bear. If I could just work on not creating my own messes! Speaking of gratitude.... I would love to get an autographed picture if you could tell me how or send one to me. Bill, You are SO right. How often do I just whisper to God, "Thanks for not letting me screw that up! You just asked for the photo. and for folks who want their own 'do-it-yourself' photo, click here. Read here to see what George had to say about Gratitude. Pretty profound, I think. As long as we have breath and consciousness we can still choose to make a difference, even if it is only silent prayer in a failing body. So the physical hindrances that may come our way still leave us able to do some things of worth. God has this infinite supply of grace that we can tap if we ask Him. Ultimately, our lives are lived between us and Him. What the world sees or thinks of us matters up to a point, but God's reasons for putting us here, if we can only discover them, are what really matter. In finding out and doing those things we will find the greatest satisfaction, and give Him the most glory. Thanks for inviting my thoughts on this. Enroll writes: I will try to express gratitude more openly. The flip side is before I begin to whine or complain, I'll visualize the role my whine-subject plays in the "big-picture o' life", usually realizing the insignificance of whining about it. |