Throughout the week I've thought about gratitude. We talked about the link that gratitude has with joy in a recent Sunday school lesson. Interestingly, joy and gratitude seem to go hand in hand - there is a very strong link. Having gratitude may often require some thoughtfulness and effort on our part. When we have a heart filled with gratitude the world around us looks so much better. Even though two people may have identical circumstances, if one finds a way to feel grateful for what he does have, rather than dwell on everything he doesn't, he will find joy within himself.
It's caused me to reflect on some of the things I'm grateful for. I'm extremely grateful for a body and mind that work well. I see so many people who are not whole in body and/or mind who struggle in life. Some people have mental health disorders that lead them to have poor decision making, which in turn leads to further pain and suffering. Take for example the problem of homelessness. The vast majority of people who are homeless have mental health disorders which make it extremely difficult or even impossible to function as a productive member of society. I'm grateful that I was raised with goodly parents who taught me, nurtured me and taught me.
I'm also extremely grateful for the many avenues of learning we have available to use today. The internet and technology make so much possible. Instant communication with family and friends, instant answers to most questions, driving directions, a camera available at any time, etc. Modernest technology is a miracle, and like any tool can be used for good and for evil, however I'm very grateful for the good.
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