Appreciation

I am writing this at the tail end my family’s Spring Break. It began with a trip to Washington, D.C. where my we were extremely fortunate to get a tour of the West Wing of the White House. We also got a private tour of the Capital building where we were able to spend time on the floor of the House and Senate. Finally we were taken to the Naval Observatory for a fascinating view of the Master Clock where the official time is kept for the entire world. After leaving Washington we flew out to Beaver Creek, Colorado just in time for a foot of fresh powder on the mountain. I cannot begin to convey the level of appreciation I feel. My Washington experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity that was made possible through a very dear friend. My skiing experienced was the best I have ever had in the spring. I also have tremendous appreciative for my wife for flying back to Florida and foregoing the ski trip so she could oversee the renovation of our new home.

Most of us appreciate the big moments in life, trips, new houses, and momentous occasions. The question becomes, do you take the time to find gratitude for day to day events. Things like health, family, personal safety, and all the things we need to maintain our existence. The more we acknowledge our appreciation for such things, the happier we are.

Let’s look at a few things you can do daily to “be in appreciation.”
1. Don’t get out of bed in the morning until you come up with 3 things for which you are appreciative. You can keep them in your head or keep a pad by the bed and write them down. It can be as simple as:
a. I woke up today feeling good.
b. My family loves me.
c. I have the means to pay my bills.
Whatever comes to mind is fine. There is no better way to start your day than the simple acknowledgement of appreciation.
2. Observe your situation alongside others that are less fortunate. There is so much suffering around the world, from refugees in war torn nations to homelessness in city streets. Take the opportunity to be grateful for the safety and lifestyle you are fortunate to have.
3. Give of yourself. Consider volunteering at a homeless shelter or doing something for underprivileged children in your community. Giving of yourself is the most rewarding thing you can do and will help you truly appreciate the benefits you have.
4. Resist the need to complain. You can’t possibly appreciate anything while you are complaining. In effect, they are opposites. Every time you complain you are reliving a bad experience. Not only is there no benefit to you, but I’m sure those around you would prefer not having to hear about it.

The happiest people are those that live in appreciation. It’s not just about life’s major events, it’s the day to day acknowledgement of all that is good.