Feel More Alive

It’s amazing how important the right perspective is in helping us maintain a healthy balance in every area of life. Alphonse Karr has said, “Some people grumble that roses have thorns. I’m grateful that thorns have roses.” Isn’t that amazing? It’s so common to gripe and complain about negatives, yet we don’t see the great things right in front of our faces. Derek Carpenter has written, “The benefits of practicing gratitude are nearly endless. People who regularly practice gratitude by taking time to notice and reflect upon the things they’re thankful for experience more positive emotions, feel more alive, sleep better, express more compassion and kindness, and even have stronger immune systems.” Just one of those benefits would be worth the effort, but in fact, there are tons more. Research tells us that you can improve your business by genuinely thanking employees. In turn, they develop more self-worth and confidence. This filters down through the company as workers help each other and their bosses. Remember the genuinely part. Most people can spot fake praise. Make it real. Showing gratitude toward the one you love also boosts the relationship and has been proven to build trust. Ephesians 1:16 says, “I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” One more. Have you ever been depressed? In 2005, a positive psychology study found that a single act of kindness lessened depression by 35%. The effect lasted for several weeks. Next time you’re blue, do something nice for someone else, and track your own mood. Consider keeping a brief log of your daily blessings. You might put these in your phone or a small notebook. Wherever you record them, track how your moods and physical health may improve. Getting into a habit of being grateful can change your life and the lives of others. One more tangible benefit to be thankful for. Let’s pray. Father God, we get in a rut, stuck in our own problems and bad moods. Help us to see that a heart of gratitude can bring positive changes to our lives and to the lives of those we encounter on a daily basis. In Jesus’ name, amen. Change your shirt, and you can change the world!