In today’s generation, we, as individuals, are wrapped up in this fast-paced world we reside in. Constantly on the go, overwhelmed, stressed, and concerned about the next thing we “must do.” But why? Why are we so consumed in a life that overwhelms us and makes us fail to recognize ourselves and our purpose? As a college student, who faces daily rigor, it is very easy to lose perspective; however, we have the absolute power to gain it back, as long as we choose to simply practice gratitude within our everyday lives.
Unfortunately, adversity is inevitable. We are most likely always going to be faced with many hardships over the course of life. These may be challenges that affect us emotionally, physically, or mentally. They may seem like the lowest point of our lives but they are not. We are given these challenges to grow and to learn as individuals, so we must be grateful for them. The practice of gratitude has changed my life, and I’m almost sure it will change yours today too.
To begin, it is important you realize the two ways we can approach this beautiful thing we call our “life.” That is either with acceptance and optimism, or denial and sadness. I’m hoping at this point, you will all choose the acceptance and optimism path. When we choose to take this path we choose to enter life with our arms wide open. To accept the things that serve us, and to try and eliminate anything that doesn’t. We accept the life we are given, so we choose to express thankfulness. To live with this practice of gratitude, is to share appreciation for all the beautiful parts of our life. When we wake up each day, we must be grateful. Grateful for our health, family, friends, shelter, food, opportunities, lessons, and many other precious aspects of life that make us who we are. We are stronger, more understanding, and powerful from the troubles we overcame. So the next time you think about holding a grudge against a person who may have upset you, or an exam that crushed your grade in the course, remember that you are in the present, the now. Choose to radiate kindness and positivity rather than disgust, regret, and negativity. Embrace the present and let go of the past that hurt you a while back.
So the question is, how do we live in gratitude? To be honest, there is no direct answer. Gratitude is different for everyone. We are each thankful for the different lives we live, so the answer lies within yourself and what you choose to do. When you realize all you are blessed with, take the initiative to make the most of what you have. Whether that includes telling someone how much you love/care for them, helping a friend who has always been there for you, or even just saying hello to a new face. There are so many fascinating people in the world we haven’t met yet and we should take all the chances we are given.
We should all live with gratitude and take what is given to us with a full heart. I know it can be hard on the darkest of days, when we think nothing is going right, but just please; open your eyes to the perspective we have lost, and you will find yourself living a happier, more fulfilling, and wonderful life. Change the way you approach life and I promise you won’t regret it. You are here, you are wonderful, and you have so much to be thankful for.
