43. Being Thankful for Things We Often Overlook
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of responsibilities, ambitions, and everyday challenges. However, amid the chaos, there exists a profound truth that often eludes us until circumstances bring it into sharp focus: the importance of being thankful. Being thankful is not meant to be just a fleeting emotion reserved for special occasions; it is a powerful tool we can use to perceive the richness of our lives. Sometimes, it takes encountering others who have much less to make us truly appreciate the blessings we often take for granted.
In pursuit of our goals and aspirations, we may become so consumed with what we lack that we overlook the abundance surrounding us. It's not uncommon to forget the privilege embedded in our lives—simple yet profound aspects like a stable home, access to education, a support system of friends and family, a career, clothing, hot meals, etc. These are the foundations of a well-lived life, and yet, their significance often remains hidden until we encounter someone less fortunate, without any of those blessings. I’ll be the first one to admit that I have been guilty of this in the past. Growing up, I never wanted for anything. A secure roof over my head, meals on the table, clothes on my back—these were all constants in my life. However, in all honesty, I cannot claim to have truly appreciated these gifts during my childhood and early adulthood. Instead, I endlessly yearned for something more, unaware of the wealth of privileges I possessed.
It wasn’t until my first stint in rehab that I began to truly grasp the concept of being thankful. It took me being surrounded by people with nothing more than the clothes on their backs to truly cherish everything I’ve been blessed with throughout my life. When we encounter individuals who lack the privileges that we consider to be ordinary, it serves as a poignant wake-up call. Perhaps it's a chance encounter with a person experiencing homelessness, a visit to an underprivileged community, or a conversation with someone facing adversity. These experiences shed light on the stark differences that exist and force us to reflect on our own circumstances. Suddenly, the roof over our heads and the warm meals on our tables take on a new significance.
My friend with the tattoos on his face that I wrote about in a past column played a pivotal role in deepening my appreciation for the blessings in my own life. When he arrived in this country, he brought with him nothing more than his son, his girlfriend, and the clothes on their backs—no exaggeration. The thought of starting anew in a foreign land with absolutely nothing is unimaginable to me. Encounters with individuals like him, who possess substantially less, serve as a catalyst for a profound shift in perspective. This isn't about fostering guilt or making comparisons; rather, it's about recognizing the inherent value in our daily lives. Gratitude transcends a mere checklist of possessions; it embodies a deep appreciation for the intangible elements that give life its true meaning. A loving relationship, good health, and the freedom to pursue our passions are often underestimated until we witness their absence in the lives of others. It's through these encounters that we gain a deeper understanding of the richness that exists far beyond material possessions.
Conversations with those who have less also offer valuable lessons in resilience. Witnessing the strength and determination of individuals facing adversity with grace and courage instills a sense of humility. It prompts us to reevaluate our own response to challenges and difficulties, encouraging us to face life's obstacles with a newfound appreciation for our capacity to overcome them. I have the utmost respect for my tattooed friend. Our connection began simply, as I responded to his call for assistance by delivering donations—clothes, books, and food. What unfolded in our conversations revealed a profound depth of gratitude in him. Whether I dropped off six bags of donated clothes or a package of toothbrushes, his appreciation remained unwavering. Engaging with him regularly has left a lasting mark on me. It has served as a grounding force, a constant reminder of the significance and need for gratitude in my everyday life. This friendship has become a source of genuine impact, shaping my perspective, and fostering a deeper understanding of the importance of appreciation. I am truly thankful for the meaningful connection I share with him.
As we cultivate gratitude, its impact extends beyond our individual lives. Expressing thankfulness often creates a ripple effect, fostering a culture of compassion and kindness. When we are grateful for the opportunities and privileges we enjoy, we are more likely to extend a helping hand to those who need it. Acts of generosity, whether big or small, contribute to the betterment of our communities.
Recognizing the blessings in our lives and expressing gratitude is a conscious effort. It involves taking stock of our daily experiences, acknowledging the positive aspects, and learning from the challenges. Practices like keeping a gratitude journal, where we regularly record the things we are thankful for, can be instrumental in fostering a mindset of appreciation. The journey towards gratitude often takes unexpected turns. Meeting individuals who have less than we have acts as a powerful catalyst, unveiling the blessings we may have once overlooked. It teaches us that being thankful is not just a sentiment but rather a transformative perspective that enriches our lives and those around us. As we reflect on the profound impact of being thankful, let us strive to cultivate this mindset daily, appreciating the richness of our lives and contributing to a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
I hope all my readers have a very Happy and healthy holiday! I’m truly grateful for every single one of you.
And remember, if you’re struggling, or know someone who is struggling, please don’t lose hope. If that had happened to me, I wouldn’t be able to help spread awareness today.
