Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts . . . And be thankful.
Colossians 3:15

"Gratitude tends to be a rare feeling these days, especially in our culture, where satisfaction is associated with the acquisition of physical pleasures and material things. There is always more to acquire! Our gratitude is frequently tinged with regret that the success or reward was not greater. This feeling of never being satisfied can leech the joy out of life. How can it be remedied?

"If we could see our goal as a light to illuminate our path, instead of a ruler to measure our success, then the the very process of traveling toward the goal might offer us enjoyment on the journey. We could gain satisfaction from our experience on the way, as well as our achievement on arrival.

"But focusing our attention on the daily process can be difficult, especially in a world where we feel pressured to race ahead to the next task. If, instead, we could occasionally recall those things in a day, week, month, or year for which we can be grateful, then we might be surprised by gratitude.

"What has lifted our hearts? Who has given us happiness? How has creation raised our spirits? If we could take a few minutes to note those things that bring us gratitude, we might need more paper than we think! As we gradually grow in gratitude, we may find more things to be grateful for."