Gratitude Journal

"Be careful how you think; your life is shaped by your thoughts." (Proverbs 4:23 GN)

Long before psychology came around, God said your thoughts determine your feelings and your feelings determine your actions. If you want to change your life, you have to control the way you think."

- Rick Warren

I couldn't agree more. Take it from a girl who has only been journaling for 5 short months. Your mind  becomes a whole lot clearer when you adjust your way of thinking. I use to think, Why sit aside time to think about good things that already happened? Why not concentrate on the negative things happening and how to avoid them in the future? It seems a better use of my time. But after I made a conscious switch in my thinking, I found I was happier. Sure, bad stuff still happens to me and I complain and cry. However, at the end of the day I take time to journal my gratitude and blessings. It's refreshing.

I am grateful for a heartfelt email sent from a member of our women's group. I think of all the times I want to send an encouraging note or reach out to someone and just share what is on my heart. Instead, I let the moment pass me by. It's such a shame I don't allow others to feel the acceptance, love, or assurance I felt. I always wonder what holds me back, perhaps insecurity or a busy schedule. I am going to remember how thankful I was for the note.

I am grateful my children are safe. I first learned about the disappearance of the 10 year old Colorado girl from A Bit of Brandy. I began following the story in the media. The outcome is devastating. I couldn't imagine what that heartbreak feels like as a parent. I can not imagine. 

I am grateful when I look over tonight my 7 year old is peacefully asleep on the pillow next to mine. It lets me know that I still have a couple years left as being his all important momma. Before we hit 12 and I become a nuisance who misreads maps and threatens to drive her him to school *gasp* if she he doesn't wear a jacket. 

I am grateful for our annual trip to the pumpkin patch. It was a day with amazing weather and the company of friends. I love the tradition it has become for me and the kids (husband always misses it). And I love the yearly photo of the kids posing on the pumpkins. 

I am grateful for Facebook. With all its annoyances, I can connect with friends and family who literally live all over the globe. It's very convenient!

As always, thank you for stopping by. Have a great week!

  ANNOUNCEMENT: The gratitude post is becoming a weekly Sunday Gratitude LinkUp starting October 21st. Learn more here. Please stop by and link up your gratitude, thank you, or other positive reflection post on that day. More details will be posted daily as we get closer to Sunday Gratitude Linkup at Adventures of a Semper Fi Family.