Even in times of uncertainty – even when life seems far from perfect – it’s always important to keep things in perspective.
Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.
? Henry David Thoreau
- You are alive.
- You didn’t go to sleep hungry last night.
- You didn’t go to sleep outside.
- You had a choice of what clothes to wear this morning.
- You haven’t spent a minute in fear for your life.
- You know someone who loves you.
- You have access to clean drinking water.
- You have access to medical care.
- You have access to the Internet.
- You can read.
Some might say you are incredibly wealthy and privileged, so remember to be thankful for all the things you do have.
Your turn…
What would you add to the list?
What do you sometimes forget to be thankful for?
Please leave a comment below and share your thoughts.
Photo by: D.Ph
Luke says
The difference between happiness & unhappiness is not what happens to you, but where you chose to look! Thanks for the beautifully simple article!
Chris says
I couldn’t agree more – no matter what you do in life – you have to look where you want to go, and not where you do not want to go. I had a zen moment in a motorcycle safety course years ago, and the instructor said to us: “Always look where you want to go…”
Pedro says
I say a prayer each morning as I pull out of my driveway. I’m grateful for yesterday, today and tomorrow. Whether its been great or bad day… Yes, I do get frustrated and disappointed but I’m still Thankful. To all who read the comments and to those who leave a comment and more to the individuals who can’t. I hope everyone has a wonderful day and may your future be bright. 🙂
Anita says
I would add :
……………….we have a choice
Michael Gregory II says
These are all great points that we take advantage of as we live our day to day life. But a personal favorite I feel grateful for having is the ability to hold a positive mindset versus those who want to see the world burn. I know it’s easy to hate other people and allow your anger to get the better of you, but the way you feel determines your destiny.
honey says
I mostly forget to be thankful for the fact that I have complete body parts, and I guess now I’m going to be thankful I found this site.
Debbie says
Wow, to think I just expect to have a warm home, choice of food to eat, heat, a good car to drive, a decent job,… I just take all this for granted and never think to be grateful for this. There are so many more things I could list my children, husband, grandchildren. You have given me a new vision I only hope I can continue to remember these things
Patrick Hardy says
Love the simplicity of these important reminders.
Brenda Stewart says
I am thankful to live in a free country. Where I can worship My Lord and Savior without persecution. Where I can meet with fellow believers. For the wonderful church family I have. And for my family, especially for my great-grandbaby that I saw for the first time this Thanksgiving. I am financially stretched but am the richest person on earth. For I am surrounded by love!
Andrew Loader says
I have had some difficult moments at times in my life … but I have survived them. When I look at the list here, however, I have to accept that even in my bad times I have been comparatively lucky compared to much of the Earth. I have always had a morbid fear about ending up without number 3 (and when I lost my home 2 years ago I was really worried about it) but the reality was, of course, that I simply scaled down and moved into rented accommodation. I had an appointment in town yesterday and as I walked from the bus to where my appointment was I passed 3 beggars on the side of the road in shop doorways. I did have to think for a moment, and give thanks that I did not end up that far down.
Captain Kirk says
I am thankful for my lifelong journey of self-discovery – to satisfy these human needs:
1. Physical
2. Mental
3. Emotional
4. Spiritual
As a result, I am more centered – and confident in powering through adversities >>> and celebrating the victories!
NoeliA says
I am grateful for
A. My health
B. My gratefulness
C. My motivation that keeps me moving
Seidler says
We often take for granted simple things such as a place to sleep or clean water to drink, bathe and cook. I am also thankful to have a job to go to and money for necessities.
Steve Simms says
Wow! Those 10 are a home run of gratitude! I’m leaving your blog, feeling thankful.
andref says
This is so true, guys. Thank you for reminding us of what we forget sometimes!
Lv from Portugal! 😉 Keep it up!
Aysha says
@Luke..
I loved what you said.. That the difference between happiness and unhappiness is not what happens, but where you look… you are so right.
It explains why I am unhappy. Since separating from my husband and becoming a single mum to three kids, i’ve forgotten what happiness feels like. I have moments of happiness, but they pass. Working full time and living alone (with a broken heart that just isn’t healing) has left me feeling deeply sad. I know I need to look at what is great in my life. I know this. But I can’t do it. I’m on auto-pilot. I feel detached from things because that helps to keep the pain at bay. I don’t know how to get myself out of this. But i read the articles and hope that one day I may experience what it feels like to feel alive. I’m sorry if my post is negative. I’m struggling to find meaning to anything right now.
Ruby says
Thank you, these are great reminders, simple and to-the-point. I liked this post a lot! 🙂
Marc Chernoff says
Thank you, everyone, for the kind words, and for sharing what you’re thankful for.
It’s so inspiring and empowering to realize how incredibly blessed we already are. Isn’t it? 😉
Rachael says
I am grateful I read this, this morning.
Ann Bostock says
I am grateful for the privilege of making a difference to children’s lives as a teacher and adult’s lives as a Coach.
Tuhin says
Apart from the 10 points above, I am really grateful to god :
For this beautiful life…and
for having such a wonderful family.
Julie says
Being loved unconditionally is an amazing feeling! I am grateful to be loved in that manner by my dogs! They make my day everyday and they have taught me how to love others as the same way! Thanks God for bringing them into my life!
Jane says
I have the ability to work towards my goals and help others.
I stumbled upon a life-changing book, Think and Grow Rich.
I can see. I can hear.
I have two legs and two arms.
I don’t live with someone who abuses me.
I have freedom of thoughts.
I have a church family that cares about me.
I have a great mind.
I live in Canada.
I have good health.
I can write songs.
I can write poetry.
I have a family.
GratefulChick says
Thank you Marc and Angel for this list. Every single thing that is easily overlooked but essential to every day. I didn’t realize how ungrateful even I can be.