When we are aware of what we do have, we are a lot less inclined to obsess about all the things we don’t. Cultivating a consciousness of gratitude is a spiritual practice – it’s a MUST for anyone who is committed to living a life of love.
My personal gratitude practice consists of an evening gratitude ritual that I have done for years. Every night before I go to bed, I write a list of things that happened that day that I am particularly grateful for. Things like a rockstar parking spot, magical moments of serendipity, a fabulous meal, a laugh with a friend, or noticing an old pattern or trigger come up that offers me an opportunity to work on my process. My gratitude journal is also a wonderful way to keep a diary of my life. I love looking back through it to reflect on past moments and celebrate lessons and blessings.
Now I’m sure you’ve heard the suggestion of keeping a gratitude list before; however, are you actually doing it? I assure you, it makes a huge difference, especially if you add it to your bedtime ritual because you send yourself off to sleep in the consciousness of gratitude. Dozing off with appreciation in your heart will positively impact your quality of sleep and the state you wake up in. So get yourself a journal and cuddle up with gratitude.
And for an extra dose of gratitude, I offer this affirmative prayer from my grateful heart to yours…
I’m grateful for everything in my life that has led me to this moment as it has all been part of my unique destiny.
I am grateful for all the people who I have met for a moment or known deeply for they have all been my mirror and my teachers.
I am grateful for all the times I have thought I have failed for I know now they taught me resilience.
I am grateful for all the heartache I’ve experienced because it means I am willing to open my heart.
I’m grateful for when I’ve had more because it taught me how to give and I’m grateful for when I’ve had less because it taught me how to receive.
A Prayer Of Gratitude
I’m grateful for the miracles I experience in my life as they have reminded me of the magic of the Universe.
I am grateful for my body exactly the way it is because it is the absolutely perfect package for my soul.
I am grateful for all the various forms of abundance that I recognize in my life.
I am grateful for every tear I’ve shed because I’ve learned compassion.
I am grateful for every hurt I’ve experienced because I’ve learned forgiveness.
I am grateful for every time I’ve suffered because I’ve learned acceptance.
I am grateful for the times I have felt alone because in those moments I found my way back to my connection to the Universe.
I am grateful for my gifts and my courage and willingness to express them.
I’m grateful to be able to live with an open heart.
I’m grateful to be able to choose my response to anything.
I’m grateful for my freedom.
I’m grateful to love, be loved and BE LOVE.