Grattitude Challenge ~ Day One

     It's easy to forget to be truly thankful for all that we have and all that God has done in our lives.  I'm the kind of person who sees both the positive and the negative in situations and in life.  So, the glass is both half full and half empty for me. 

     What this means, in practical terms, is that when I see something that isn't right or appropriate, I will either think or say something about it. 

     But on the flip side, when I see something that is going well and deserves a positive comment or "thank you", I'll also enthusiastically say something and try to be an encouragement to others.

     Because of that, you'll hear me say "thank you" a lot.  My children hear me say "thank you" to them all day long!

     Not just because I was taught to say "thank you," but because I'm truly grateful when someone helps me out or does something kind for me. 

     I think I'm going to give my children a complex when they are adults, because their bosses or husbands typically aren't going to say "thank you" when they follow directions or do something kind and helpful.  And I'm afraid that my girls are going to expect to hear those two words:  "Thank you," and be sorely disappointed when they don't hear it as often as they'd like. 

     I will often thank the Lord for a beautiful sunset, a peaceful day, a new friend, spiritual growth in myself and my family, and more.  But I still know I can be thankful in more ways than these.

     That's why I'm going to make the attempt to participate in Brenda's 2011 Gratitude Challenge every day during November.  Brenda's my boss on the TOS Crew, and she often has thankless tasks that include people grumbling to her about her decisions (and sometimes, decisions that she isn't even responsible for!).  I'm so glad that Brenda has chosen to spend one month every year really concentrating on being thankful, instead of just listing a few things on Thanksgiving Day.

     I hope I can keep up with Brenda.  She is an amazing gal who works so hard!  I know you'll enjoy looking at the other gals' blog postings about gratitude each day of November.

     So, for today, November 1st, 2011, I'm very thankful that God made me to see things in a balanced viewpoint.  It keeps me from becoming a totally negative person, but it also keeps me realistic so that I'm not idyllically being crazy with smiles when something isn't right, either. 

     Balance. 

     I'm thankful for that balance that God has given to my emotions.  

Julieanne
Joy In Our Journey.com

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