Wisdom Week Wrap-Up December 22
Quotes that are food for thought
So many great quotes come out of my conversations with my guests! This is a weekly piece with some words that might just get you thinking about your own life.
With Christmas upon us, this week’s quotes focus on gratitude.
Gratitude is the practice of seeing the glass half full. It’s a flow that starts from your heart and radiates outward. The energy of your gratitude touches those around you.
Most of my guests would say gratitude is a key piece of their mindset. Here are three stories that exemplify the power of gratitude to help us move forward in thanks.
“Gratitude is the secret to contentment and happiness.”-Peter Wright
Peter survived unimaginable situations when his beloved home country, Rhodesia, fell apart in civil war. He became something of an international nomad, seeking simple security for himself and his family. Yet in spite of all the upheaval in his life, he stresses that one’s reaction to events is under one’s control. Among other things, Peter chose gratitude.
What do you choose this holiday season?
“Being present… that’s a key to finding more joy in your life and more gratitude.” -Kim McIntyre
It’s strange that we have to learn to be present. But in today’s world, we are easily distracted by the pace of life, not to mention our gadgets.
With this busyness as a backdrop, Kim’s observation that simple presence amplifies joy and gratitude is something for all of us to consider.
Slow down. Enjoy the moment. It’s so fleeting. And why not be grateful for it while we’re here?
“When you’re practicing gratitude it just elevates everything.” -Effie Parks
Effie’s child, Ford, was born with an extremely a rare disease CTNB1. Ford needs a wheelchair; has no verbal skill; and suffers from a combination of low trunk tone and dystonia in this arms and legs.
Motherhood can be isolating for anyone, but the shock, the magnitude and the isolation that went with Ford’s birth and disability were overwhelming. Effie had to find a way to cope.
One of her coping mechanisms was gratitude, for this life, for this child she loves and for all the changes it brought into her family’s life.
This holiday season, may we all look around and find gratitude for our life path and all the lessons that go with it.