Gratitude

As I take a break from making multiple thank you cards, I consider the word "gratitude".  Defined it means the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and return kindness.  Which actually is very fitting given the reason for the thank you cards.  Not only am I a craft addict, I'm also a volunteer member of a local outreach group for people who have lost someone to suicide.  The cards I am making are going to the sponsors of an upcoming event.  Because of their willingness to sponsor, the event will be free to the community.  The goal of the event is to spread awareness and hope on the difficult topics of mental illness and suicide.  So I want the cards to be special.  I felt like the sponsors not only deserve to be acknowledged for their generous gift, but shown appreciation and gratitude.  I didn't think a generic store bought thank you card would be fitting.  Instead, I retreated to my craft room (aka therapy room) and I created a special thank you card just for them.

And as I write this post, I ponder the fact that I need to practice "gratitude" more.  How often do we get so busy thinking about the things that we have to, that we should, or that we need to do that we forget about all of the things that we are thankful for?  Too often.  Life is busy.  It is stressful.  It is easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of trying to make a living and raising a family.  We are constantly trying to balance so many things.  But what kind of balance do we have when we are so focused on the chaos?  Not a lot. 
Studies show that people who practice gratitude regularly, find a shift in their own attitude.  They gain a new perspective and have a great sense of appreciation for the things around them.  Who doesn't need that?  So I challenge you to take a few minutes every day to think of what you are thankful for.  It may seem silly at first, but after some practice, I bet it will become easier and easier to do.  Think of what would happen if everyone spent a few minutes every day showing appreciation and returning kindness to others.

Until next time,
Happy Crafting!
-AJ