“Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” —Robert Brault
I was inspired this week by a subscriber who shared her story of how gratitude has helped her get through some really tough times.
“In 2015, I lost my mom, my dad, my mother in law, and my brother within 4 months of each other. Almost one year later my son died of cancer. He was 30. My oldest.
“Looking back, I believe I made it through because of family, friends, faith, hope, and a lot of love. But I came out spiritually stronger and mentally healthy because I made the choice to be grateful. I was lucky enough to read a book that encouraged me to make the choice repeatedly to see the good. To be grateful. I have told so many people, the true secret to happiness is being grateful. Pure and simple. During the holidays, or on my son’s birthday, I can feel myself start going down the rabbit hole. I have learned to schedule something, an activity, that forces me to help others, and focus on others that are hurting. And I also practice gratitude. Sometimes I am so sad I have to force myself to repeat all my gifts out loud over and over. But I am sad less often. And my lows are not as low. And I have a lot more Joy.
“Losing my son and all of my parents plus an older brother changed me. I can’t do anything about that. I didn’t want their deaths and suffering to be for naught. I wanted to make sure their loss, especially my sons, made a positive difference in me. So I started a club, a club no one wants to be a part of. People who have lost their sons. Their daughters. Their husbands. Their dads. And I call my members, send them cards, emails, etc. to check on them. I have had so many positive, wonderful, unexplainable experiences through all of this. Hearing my son’s voice, smelling my mom’s perfume, … I consider them gifts.
“So gratitude is everything to me. And I wanted you to know that I get it.”
Not only did she get through her grief using the power of gratitude, but she has also helped many others down a similar path. Thank you, my dear friend, for all that you do to bring joy to others.
If you have experienced the power of gratitude for yourself, don’t keep it a secret. There are others who need to know how it can help. Share!!!
