Definition of Gratitude: “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness”
Definition of prayer: “An earnest hope or wish”
We are facing an enormous challenge and while we have taken many measures to secure our safety there is still a feeling of uncertainty about what the future may hold. So what should we do? I am reminded of a story of an elderly man who after being diagnosed with the virus fought for his life in ICU. He was on a ventilator for many days until finally things took a turn. He began improving until he was finally cleared! Unfortunately however, as he was about to leave the hospital he was told the price he would have to pay for using the ventilator. It was so high that all the staff and nurses who served him felt great sympathy. To their surprise he began to laugh! Finally he said: “ all my life I have taken breathing for granted. I have never had to pay anything for the air that entered my lungs and sustained my life. Today this price is a lesson and a reminder that I indeed have so much to be thankful for!”
What an inspiring thought. So often when one is overwhelmed by negative news one fails to see the things one can be thankful for. The principle of focus is that whatever you focus on grows. When you shift into a state of gratitude you are awakened to a better quality of life. To make this practice conscious you can use prayer. Prayer is powerful in that it helps you to set an intention and focus your attention. It is grounding and brings you into the present through positive focus. Choose to make a practice of thanking God/ Source/the Universe in prayer and inspire hope to those around you. Remember too that anything done in agreement and with others multiplies in power. Invite someone to join you on your journey of gratitude.
Types of prayer:
Meditative, Silent, Vocal
Exercise:
For the next couple of lockdown days using one of the types of prayer mentioned above, decide to start your day with thanksgiving! Choose three (3) things you can be thankful for. (Invite someone to join you)
My Simple Prayer
“Today I am thankful for
1. ___________ 2. ____________3. ___________
By Chivonne Jones, Life coach and Image Development specialist.
Photo by Zac Durant on Unsplash
