I remember when I first realized the power of belief. I found out that what I expected truly did come about: focus makes things happen.

At first I was excited with all the possibilities;  I started to imagine a place in the country, vacations, an exciting career, a new van, etc. And all of those dreams did come true. When I realized this way of thinking in fact did work,  I then had to sit down and think about what I really wanted. The answer surprised me.

I wanted more of what I already had. I wanted more of the same.

There are simple, fabulous things happening each and every day and I want to truly appreciate those things and I also want those things to continue into tomorrow and the next day and the next day. That’s when I hit upon the most valuable thought of all. If I can log-in with the password “Grateful”, the things I love about my life get bigger and happen more often. They take center stage. The things I don’t like about my life become fuzzy and out-of-focus…sometimes they even disappear.

With that in mind, I want you (and God) to know that today I am specifically  grateful for these five things…

• I’m thankful for a husband who really listens to me…sees me…knows me. It’s what every human wants–for someone to “click in” and truly focus. It makes me think of that movie Avatar when they  say to each other “I see you.” He sees me and I am grateful.
• I’m grateful for healthy, happy, fascinating children who are learning and growing and communicating with me.  I’m thankful for this moment in time where my life is full of them and their lives are full of me.
• I’m grateful for Annabelle, my cat. I’m grateful that she has chosen me over everyone else in the house and if I call she appears, ready and willing to calm my nerves and commune with me in cat-speak ;).

  

• I’m grateful for the stress-relieving nature paths my husband has made for us through the woods. Walking under the green boughs is like walking right in to a storybook. It’s impossible to take anxiety in to such a sacred place.

• 

  I’m thankful for opportunities to perform next week. I love the stage and I love sharing that stage with bright little stars who hunger for a chance to shine. I’m thankful for each child in each audience and for the opportunity to “see” them all.

And now it is your turn! Tell me, please, what five things are you thankful for today? Log in under the word “Grateful”– It will make everything SHINE!