Stories of Kindness from Around the World

You know what? I think that working on gratitude and my spiritual practice is TRULY helping me to be more patient, to smile, and to appreciate those who support me.

Here's my example: My wife was upset with me this morning and I was already sped up and trying to get to work. I managed to acknowledge that she had good reason to be upset, and rather than pout like I sometimes do, I smiled and thought "this is an opportunity to be patient and enjoy my morning with her anyway."

Although, I didn't want to get groceries, I decided we should go together and make the best of it. When I got to the store 2 separate employees were cheerful and friendly to me. I gave them my full attention and smiled back, even though I was having a challenging morning and needed to get to work.

I'm grateful that I took the time to bask in their calm cheerfulness and to realize it was more important to be present for them then to rush away. Plus, it helped me to realize that we are surrounded by blessings all the time, even when we are slogging through the mud of daily challenges.

If I stop to smell the flowers, it may just save my life. I do not exaggerate when I say this. This morning I felt a bit like Scrooge after his transformation. That grumpy, rigid shell was cracked just a bit, and my smile shone through.  I want to continue building my gratitude muscles.  I will close with this inspiring quote from Aldous Huxley that relates to yesterdays gratitude invitation: What is the best advice you've ever received ?

"It is so embarrassing that after a lifetime all I can tell you is: Be a little kinder."