I have found, in my life, that I don’t always appreciate every good thing that is happening around me. I think that most of us take things for granted at one time or another. As human beings, we are not, nor will we ever be perfect. To me, the main thing is to try and be grateful for every good thing that happens to me, and recognise that there are blessings all around me.
Once recognized, anything that is good or positive can be filed away in my mind. When I do this, I create memories that can be appreciated and enjoyed again and again. The way I look at it, if I fill my mind with these memories, they can be there if I need some encouragement, or perhaps just make me smile. It doesn’t always work. And yet, sometimes it will instantly make a positive difference in my perspective.
I have come to believe that if I don’t do this exercise, then I am missing an opportunity to be more happy. I like the image of a “missed opportunity” because it puts the responsibility squarely on my shoulders. I am making a decision for myself. No one else is responsible for me. I am responsible for the way I choose to view things. It’s all on me.
I am not a pro at this exercise. I may not ever be one. It’s my decision and my practice that makes the difference. I have found that I am always glad when I do the work that makes my life better. Learning to recognize those good things is only the first step. But it is also the most important one. Now, is the only moment I am actually engaged in. The past is only a memory now. The future is not promised. When I remember to ponder these two facts, I am fully invested in the present. That is where I must continue to learn to recognize every good thing. A daily challenge, indeed.