Those who have the ability to be grateful are the ones who have the ability to achieve greatness. Steve Maraboli Wisdom Commons
When faced with an “Unthinkable” event in our lives, it is pretty much impossible to know, what to do at first. We are overwhelmed, shocked, in disbelief and always in a lot of pain. We will find our way through it, we will make the journey and we will come through it! In my experience of coping with the “Unthinkable” events of my life so far, I have experienced several common things that have helped me and others on their way, and I would like to share them with you.
The First is Gratitude. I think of Gratitude as light, it is the first beacon of light, in the darkness of an ” Unthinkable” event. Like the proverbial ” light at the end of the tunnel”, this light of gratitude will shine it’s way as we move through the journey of coping with the unthinkable. You may be thinking, is she kidding me? This and that horrible thing has just occurred and she is talking about Gratitude???? I get it, it seems implausible, that at the worst of times, we need to be grateful. However, there is always, always, something to be grateful for, always.
My heartfelt understanding of this began the morning after our accident. I arrived at the Car Wreck Lot, to collect the personal items from our vehicle. I was sobbing, it had been our first brand new car, we loved it and it was smashed almost beyond recognition. The lot manager, a large, burly man, with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth came up to me and said. ” Lady, you are one of the lucky ones. Everyday, I see people come here, mostly they have lost a loved one in an accident, you are one of the lucky ones lady”. In that instant, I felt such gratitude, the lot manager was right, in spite of the broken neck, life turned upside down, uncertainty and pain all put together, we were so lucky. I hold that gratitude everyday. It gives me the ability to ” achieve the greatness”, of whatever life brings my way.
Gratitude needs to be felt in your heart, as well as your mind in order to guide you towards light. Try this. Each morning when you wake up, maybe before you open your eyes. Say out loud three things you are truly grateful for, say them out loud three times. Watch and observe how this light of gratitude helps guide you.
I hope this helps you on your way.
