August 9

“If the only prayer you say in your life is ‘thank you,’ that would suffice.” 

German theologian, philosopher and mystic, Meister Eckhart wrote these words back in the early 1300’s. Even all those centuries ago, people knew something about the redeeming value of gratitude. Some, like Eckhart, also understood it was a way of getting connected to things that are buried far beneath the surface. 

In today's world, learned men continue to explore the ways gratitude leads to living more deeply and more fully. Deepak Chopra says being grateful removes the ego and allows us to acknowledge that we alone are not the reason for every good thing in our lives. In fact, much of what we have is ours only by virtue of circumstances that are out of our control: where we were born,  the family we ended up with, or the state of our health. Gratitude reminds us that things like this are beyond us and our doing. It reminds us that we can't do life alone, that we need other people and, for many of us, that we need God.  

Chopra says being deeply grateful also helps us get in touch with that soulful part of us where we are our true selves. It stands to reason that is the reason research shows those who live in gratitude have a stronger bond with their Higher Power. It’s no surprise because, for many, appreciation is directed toward God and becomes another tether that deepens our connection to Him.

Gratitude is more than a feeling. It’s a virtue that takes us beyond the superficial and has a powerful affect on all parts of our lives. And that's why we are here doing this. Eight more days until we hit the three week mark and make this a habit. Let us know how gratitude is working for you.

It’s day 13 of The Big Joy of Little Things and I am grateful for:

51. My teenager making it back safely when he’s out with friends who drive.

52. Sunshine after several days of rain.

53. Leftover pizza for breakfast. And lunch.

54. The way my Hubs makes me laugh. Hysterically.

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Peace, love and gratitude!