Do you rejoice in life?

November 19th, 2008 by admin

“A wise man is he who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” ~ Epictetus ~

Why is it that so few of us are able to rejoice in life? Is it because we have become so used to a life of ease. I look at the kids growing up today and see that many are given things on a silver platter so to speak. They are not taught appreciation for what they have.

Many grow up expecting life to be like that. That they can have what they want without having to work for it. How the world would be different if we appreciated and rejoiced at the basics of life. If we felt that food to eat, a roof over our head and clothes on our back is something to be grateful for and beyond that is gravy.

In the United States of America we enjoy a standard of living that has allowed us to become very wasteful We can too easily replace that which we throw away. We don’t think of those who do not have and could be helped with that which we discard.

I remember going to work in a large department store when I was a young adult. The department store had three restaurants. I started my day shortly after the store closed. I remember hearing the food coming down the garbage chute which connected all fourteen floors of the building. They would throw out everything that had been cooked and not sold that day.

I see that happening even today at restaurants where ever I go. I have always wondered why. I cannot see why that food is not at least given to the homeless and hungry which plague every city and state. What a waste when there is such a need.

I am sure you have heard talk about the “attitude of gratitude.” In the Ultimate healthy lifestyle we recognize that gratitude is a part of a healthy lifestyle. We cultivate that attitude in ourselves and try to instill that attitude of gratitude in our children and those around us.

Gratitude is also the cornerstone of manifesting our dreams and desires. You must be grateful for what you have to truly rejoice in life. With this attitude it is easier to get more.

I have have people say they know people who seem to have it all and are not grateful. That of course is true but what they are usually talking about is the outside trimmings, money and things.

If you really get to know these people you will often find that they do not have the one thing that makes them able to enjoy what they have. That is peace of mind. As the saying goes, what use is it to own the world when you have lost your soul.

Gratitude and appreciation brings peace of mind and joy in just being alive.

TODAY’S TIP: Reflect often on the thing you can be grateful for in your life. The more you do the more you will find to be grateful for.

What are you grateful for?