Recognize Your Blessings
Recognize your blessings, however small.
Dr. Maya Angelou, who was asked by President Bill Clinton to write and recite an original poem for his Inauguration as President of the United States in 1993, had not always been articulate and confident. As a young girl she felt she was worthless and was dangerously depressed. Fortunately a teacher took interest in her and insisted that she make of list of everything she had to be thankful for. When she could find nothing to write, the teacher said, « Then begin with the fact that you are able to hold a pencil. » Little by little she began her list which has grown with the years. Today, Dr. Maya Angelou is herself a blessing in the lives of multitudes through her words, lyrics and legendary wisdom. At age 80 she continues her attitude of gratitude as she inspires audiences throughout the world.
On a recent trip to South Africa to present AgeEsteem at a global conference of Women’s Rights and Development it was once again reinforced for me just how privileged I am to live where I do. Learning from such a diverse group of women was enriching. Learning filters both ways. Often the people who have suffered the most through war, drought, hunger or standing up for what they believe to be just and right are the ones who show the greatest gratitude. They have managed to live through these experiences and survive. - And an important ingredient to this survival has been to see the little blessings along the way that others would have overlooked.
Recognizing our blessings, both great and small, and being thankful are powerful ingredients to reaching our potential at every age.
- Every night before you fall asleep ask yourself this question. « What am I most thankful for today? »
- Seek the little blessings that you normally overlook.
- Nourish your gratitude and feel truly thankful.
