If we want to be happy, and who doesn't, then we must focus our energy on what is rather than dwell on what isn't. “To be grateful is to recognize the Love of God in everything He has given us - and He has given us everything. Every breath we draw is a gift of His love, every moment of existence is a grace, for it brings with it immense graces from Him. Gratitude therefore takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder and to praise of the goodness of God. For the grateful person knows that God is good, not by hearsay but by experience. And that is what makes all the difference.” Thomas Merton Developing a heart of Gratitude is perhaps the best thing you can do for yourself or for others.  Cicero once said that "Gratitude is not only the greatest virtue but the parent of all others." If you trust Cicero, then obviously the best thing you can do for yourself is be grateful and the rest of the joy in life will follow. 

“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”    Melody Beattie

Steps to Gratitude 11.24.13E Steps to Gratitude 11.24.13L Sermon Notes: Sermon Notes 11.24.13 A Grateful Life