Being Thankful

Friday, June 13, 2008
Learning to be thankful is one of the things that has really saved my life. In all the years that I suffered severe depression, as I learned to be thankful I have been so much happier.
I remember many years ago as a young mother, my husband and I were going to weekly seminars at our church where they had invited very prominent family psychologists to come and speak about raising our families. One of them said, "When you and your husband come home from and date, and the children have literally ransacked the house, you look up at the ceiling and exclaim, 'Look, there are no footprints on the ceiling' and be thankful all is well."
It took me years to really begin to comprehend how important it is to be thankful for little things. When in my deepest depressions, I began to think, 'At least I have a home to be depressed in rather than being out on the streets.' At least I have a warm bed to curl up in and be depressed. At least I have plenty of food to eat while I am so depressed.' Thoughts like that were my consolation that all was not lost.
I would have many many sleepless nights because of anxiety and lots of anger because of not being able to sleep. I learned to lay there and pray and tell my Heavenly Father everything I was thankful for. At least I was warm and safe even though I could not sleep. As I prayed I noticed the anger leaving me and I rested even if I didn't sleep.
When life seems really tough, I am learning to be thankful for the good times I have had in the past. Remembering good times and life's blessings is essential. When it is raining and snowing and I desire sunshine, I remember our years of drought and then I am more thankful for the moisture. I am thankful for hard work that keeps my mind and body moving and keeps me from boredom.
I am so thankful for my children who have grown into wonderful adults and married terrific spouses who care for my husband and I as we age and slow down. I am so thankful for wonderful friends and neighbors. Most of all I am thankful for my knowledge of a Father in Heaven who loves me. He doesn't always make life easy for me but he lifts me up and strengthens me to face each challenge.
There is ALWAYS something to be thankful for no matter how small.