My family has long watched the movie “White Christmas” every Christmas season. And if you’ve watched it, then you’ll recall the song Bing Crosby sings about “counting your blessings.”
Every time I hear it, I’m reminded that his advice to count blessings is a good one, and not just at Christmastime.
Does it ever feel like you don’t have any blessings to count?
When I’m feeling consumed and overwhelmed by unpleasant drama and heartaches, I desperately try to change my focus to what I am grateful for. To ponder the good that is rather than only what isn’t.
When I’m tempted to think there are no “blessings” in my life, I’ve expanded my definition of blessing. I do this by asking myself some questions. Here are a few:
- What opportunities do I have that I’m thankful for?
- What relationships (people and animals) am I thankful for?
- What have others in my life done that I’m thankful for?
- What have I learned? How have I grown?
- What insights have I gained that I’m grateful for?
- What am I able to offer others that I’m grateful for?
- What opportunities to help others am I thankful for?
- What am I taking for granted about my day to day that I can be thankful for? (Keurig, iPhone, laptop, internet service, Jacuzzi bathtub, AC/Heat, etc. are some of mine) 🙂
There are so many ways to define blessings! All the things we consider as our treasures such as our friends and family, what is good in our life – every big and little thing makes us happy and brings a smile, where we have triumphed whether we overcame or endured – we outlasted, opportunities we’ve had, the support we’ve received and so on.
The one promise I can share with you all is that a focus on counting your blessings will make your heart happier, your burdens feel lighter, your tomorrow seem brighter. And you’ll sleep better, too!
Annette Bridges
Author, Publisher and Women's Retreat Host
Annette Bridges is an author, publisher and women’s retreat host on a mission to help every woman realize her story is extraordinary, valuable and noteworthy. Part of Annette’s own journaling practice includes collecting ideas, quotes, songs, videos and photos that inspire her. She shares some of her finds in these weekly “Be Inspired” posts to lift your spirit with encouragement, comfort and joy.
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