Column: Practice gratitude

Gina Johnson First Christian Church

Throughout my weeks as I am out and about, I have many opportunities for waiting. In these moments, I find myself observing those around me. On many occasions I hear people complain with a little bit of “attitude.” Some are complaining on their phones to unseen ears, some are complaining to the person beside them, some are complaining for all to hear and some are complaining to whomever is on the other side of the table, counter, checkout line, etc.

Although I may not be aware of exactly what they are experiencing, I could usually tell that the emotions were heightened, people where short (even rude) and the overall attitude driving their words and facial expressions was not something I would call pleasant. I would see people walk away, hang up the phone, end the conversation irritated, dissatisfied and angry. I could sense how their frustration and disappointment was taking a toll, wearing on them and leaving them discouraged. Practicing gratitude is easier when everything goes just as we hoped. It’s more of a stretch when we’re surrounded by complaining, pessimism, judgment and exhausted others who are caught up in the circumstances often beyond their control.

I realize there is something I can do for myself and them. It’s beyond feeling sorry for them or even praying for them, I send them healing energy and expressions of gratitude. As I considered what I may or may not know about their circumstances and particular challenges, I still hold space for them. I recognize that I’ve been there before and there are better ways to live in this incarnation.

Focusing on gratitude may pose a challenge if I am already caught up in focusing on worry and lack. Gratitude is easier when we’re surrounded by love, when we’re responding more than reacting, and when we remember that everything is happening for us, not to us.

Let’s work on practicing gratitude even during what we perceive as our most unwelcome situations. And you may ask, what about someone else’s unwelcome situation? Well, this is where we focus on sending out loving vibes infused with beautiful thoughts of gratitude!

Gratitude is far too significant to be saved for a particular holiday or month. We can change the world we live in when we make it a habit to express gratitude as often as possible. The energy and expression of Thanksgiving should be felt all year round.