When I think about all the deep unrest and fear in this world, I am reminded that one cannot hold two opposing mindsets at the same time.  If one chooses to be thankful for this life and all that it entails, it is nearly impossible to feel anything but happy.  Gratitude is at the very heart of peace.  Try it for yourself, if you don’t already know this to be true.

Just try to bring to mind all that causes you to feel gratitude.  Whenever I begin my day by doing this, I find that one thing leads to another and I finally have to stop myself and go on with the day’s routine.  This is powerful and important to remember when anxious about what is happening in our own lives and of those we care about and love.  Negative thoughts can only produce more distress, and never will give rise to a positive outcome.

It would behoove each of us to try to start our day in this manner, if for no other reason than healthy self-interest.  Feeling bad about the details of our lives not only magnifies our problems, but indeed, can even create new ones.  The food that feeds our minds can be sweet and rich or full of garbage.  It is our choice.

Our brains are vital and dynamic and we can use them to create affirmations.  These affirmations can bolster the mindset we choose to hold.  This is how we can create peace and joy for ourselves and others.  We are in control of our thoughts and what we put into our minds and hearts.  That is exactly why one must choose his or her own path and not be led by those who do not have our best interests at heart.  There are many forces that will always be trying to gain access to our free will and use it for their own gain.

So, wake up in the morning and decide what kind of a world you want to live in.  Peace and joy are there waiting to be discovered, each and everyday.  All we have to do is be thankful.