I think there comes a time in everyones lives where they feel the lowest they have ever felt. Those times when it is difficult to gather the hope and belief that the light really is at the end of the tunnel. Where waking up has lost the feeling of a new beginning and has become more like another dreaded moment required in existence. A time when you feel so heavy from the weight of the world that it is difficult to summon the will to carry on through what seems like your insignificant daily tasks all to fall asleep with the thoughts of Dear God, how can I possibly do all of this again tomorrow..."
And it is those times especially, that we must challenge ourselves to find the gratitude and thanks in every single day. We must learn to focus on these complex times in our lives and reflect upon them as life lessons and not just adversities. It is during these difficult trials that we must learn to be grateful for what it is we actually have and not distracted, devastated, torn, jealous or distraught over those things that we do not.
And so the next time you are feeling down and like there is no end to your suffering.... and it seems like that light is really only a shimmer.... take a look around you..... When you see an individual inflicted with MS, be thankful that you are healthy.... when you read about Soldiers fighting in Afghanistan be grateful that you are resting peacefully in your bed.... when the guy at Quiznnos remembers exactly how you like your sandwich down to the Chipotle Mayo and no onions, thank him for it.
By appreciating the things we do for each other, we encourage each other to do more nice things. We "Pay it forward" if you will, without even realizing it.
Don't just say "Thank you" -- Write it down, leave them a note, call that 1-800-how-are-we-doing number and tell them that Carla or Ben really helped you out today and it made your day just that much better. Because in reality, they made your LIFE just that much better and you just that much happier.
You never know if one simple act of kindness might just change the world -- and I promise you one thing, your situation may not result in the "It's a Wonderful Life" ending, but you will realize that despite feeling like you've hit "rock bottom" you really do have a lot to be thankful for.
