I helped someone with something this week and he thanked me for my efforts. It wasn’t a regular thank you.  And, it wasn’t a thank you where you know the person really only said it so you’d do more.  No, it was a deep down thank you with him looking right into my eyes.  I wasn’t sure what to do with it.

We all know the simple act of saying “thank you” can make a big difference to both parties.  Just taking a minute out of your life to tell someone why you’re grateful for them, costs so little and means so much.

When I meditate (this is totally a work in progress), the only way I can sustain it is to focus on thanking people.  First, I thank my loved ones, for all they do for me. I thank strangers who’ve shown me little acts of kindness. I say I’m thankful for my life, the challenges, pain and joys.  I thank all of you for reading my blog.  And, I thank myself because it’s important to recognize our life and accomplishments.

Two days after the “thank you,”  I ran into this person again.  I told him about my feelings when he thanked me.  He smiled and told me that he tries to live a life of gratitude.  He said, “It’s so easy and you really can do it every day.”

First, before he gets out of bed, he simply says “thank you,” to whoever or whatever allowed him to have another day.  He makes a point of thanking people for things, when he can really mean it – not just because he thinks he should say it.  He also tells people exactly why he’s grateful.  He even sends notes to people to thank them (he said email is totally fine too — it’s 2015 after all!).  He always looks people in the eyes when he says it!

He then wrote down his “thankful prayer,” which he says every night – and sometimes out loud to his wife (how wonderful!).  It’s so beautiful I wanted to share it with you:

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for your limitations
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge
Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary
Because it means you’ve made a difference.

A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are
also thankful for the setbacks.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles
and they can become your blessings.

~ Author Unknown ~

I am so grateful I had the opportunity to help him this week.  I was the lucky one there!

Have a wonderful weekend!