Yes, in many ways 2016 has been a thorny year. My politics have been pretty transparent and you know I’m disappointed/anxious about the outcome of the U.S. elections. My country is more divided now, and confused. And many talented and beautiful souls have died this year; a short list to include David Bowie, Prince, Carrie Fisher, Debbie Reynolds, Muhammad Ali, George Michael, Alan Rickman, Leonard Cohen, Gwen Ifill, and Sandy’s dad, Butch.
Sandy’s dad at our wedding in 2001. He was a good man.
Every year will have losses and tribulations, so we need to consciously focus on the hopeful, the beneficial, the humorous, and the heartening. Here are three of the many benefits of taking the time to compose a gratitude list:
1. It’s scientifically shown to be good for our health: grateful people report fewer aches and pains, and exercise more than others. Our mental health is positively influenced as well, of course. We can have less anger, depression, and stress, and sleep better, when we concentrate on the good.
2. It improves our self esteem: we feel better when we appreciate the achievements of others without comparing ourselves to them. We don’t have to envy those with “more stuff” if we are focused on appreciating what we have (both the tangibles and the intangibles).
3. Gratitude improves relationships. Simple “thank yous” and other words of appreciation make us closer to those around us. This works like wildfire in marriages and in parent/child relationships. “I am grateful for your help/presence/support” is a glue that keeps families together.
Majoring in the majors, my 2016 gratitude list includes:
Health and energy for Sandy and me, both of us now over 60 (HOW DID THAT HAPPEN?). We still feel like we can handle most challenges, we bike and walk, and still have most of our marbles.
This isn’t a technically good photo, but I love it, it looks like us.
Retirement is wonderful: good books and music, sleeping in, travel, coffee with friends, Netflix, and the easiest wardrobe ever.
Who loves sleeping in?? Cats and retired people.
Friendships gained through blogging. Those relationships continue to grow and bring joy. Get closer and deeper, my favorite counseling teacher used to say.
What’s on your gratitude list for 2016?
Stay fabulous,
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Gratitude is a wonderful thing Patti and this is a lovely post.
Sh*t certainly happens (more often as we get older) but we focus on the good and make the best of everyday.
Keep blogging and inspiring.
Happy new year to you and your family!!
XXX
Sam
First time I’ve visited your blog and love the idea of a gratitude list. I’m grateful that we have the great music of some of those we lost last year particularly Bowie and Cohen. Happy New Year.
Even if I don’t make a conscious Gratitude List I try to be more aware of the things in my life I am grateful for on a daily basis. Most certainly the friendships I have made with other bloggers is high on the list, and as Suzanne mentioned, it is one of the main reasons I continue to post. There were many losses in 2016 and I’m sure there will be more in 2017, but staying focused on the good things will be my intention for the New Year. Wishing you and Sandy (and the kitties) health and happiness in 2017.
I love the idea of a gratitude list, because even on a bad day, I bet we are better off than many others!!
Happy Days & to a great new year!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
A great new year to you too, Jodie. xo
That’s a great portrait of you and Sandy. Happy New Year, chica!
Many thanks, my friend, and same to you. xo
I guess finding useful, reliable inoatmfrion on the internet isn’t hopeless after all.
I’m Grateful for my Family and Friends and the ability to write my blog. Thankful for good health, my Son, another Birthday and my bloggy friendships. Happy 2017 to You & Yours!
Happy New Year to you too, Neti! xo
I’m also very grateful for my blogging friendships. They are the only reason I continue to blog.
Wishing you both love, health and happiness in 2017.
bisous
Suzanne
Wishing the same for you, my friend. xo