Disasters Can Teach Lessons of Gratitude

In the world today, we encounter a lot of negativity, pain, stress and natural disasters. Many days, we wake up with far too much to do, far too much to think about, far too many conce
s, and far too many problems.
In Virginia where I live, in the span of less than one week, we experienced a “terrible triad:” an earthquake, a tornado and Hurricane Irene; three major natural disasters capable of causing devastation, tragedies, and causalities.
So many of us went through life’s inconveniences facing another triad of problems: no lights, no air-conditioning, no television.

Some people were forced to evacuate to avoid the possibility of danger to their family and their homes. Watching the scenes on television of homes being destroyed by floods, reminded me of how easily we can lose our loved ones, our homes, our lives.

After each event, we told our stories to worried family living far away, to our neighbors as we commiserated about our shared experience, and to children as we explained what happened. The fact that we survived to talk about how three major natural disasters occurred in one week is a lot to be thankful for.

Having witnessed three natural disasters in one week has made me readily come to believe that it is a good idea to start each day with inspiration and gratitude to help us make it through the day with positive thoughts. As more of your thoughts and words become positive, you'll start attracting more positive people and circumstances.

Instead of complaining, I recommend getting in the habit of giving gratitude on a daily basis and appreciating your loved ones and the simple things of life.

This is especially true for Mondays. When we begin the week, let's focus on things for which we are grateful. This will help us to stay positive as we make it through the week.

Start each week by first giving gratitude to your family, your spouse, and your children. Encourage your family to also start each week by giving gratitude. The goal is to eventually start showing your gratitude, appreciation and love for the people and things around you on a daily basis.

The more you do it, the easier it will become.

As we continue to reflect upo
9/11, let’s reflect upon it with gratitude for those who died for our freedom, for the sacrifices of the 3,051 children who lost their parents, for the courage and compassion countless Americans showed that day.

Let’s start allowing our gratitude to change our attitudes(sm).

©2011Winifred D. Bragg, MD. All Rights Reserved.