December 22, 2008 Counting your blessings

Counting your blessings

If you watch the news it’s just so depressing to see the economy and the problems of the world and I know so many of us that have our own issues with our own personal economy and job loss or lay offs, but I want to give you a little reminder and an assignment to help keep the blues away. My mom gave me an idea to make a blessing jar. Throughout the year, whenever something nice happens, no matter how slight, write it down on a piece of paper and fold it up and stick it in the jar. We can all think of a few blessings right now. Whenever life is getting you down, open up your blessing jar and read your blessings. You’ll be surprised to see how many blessings you have at the end of next year.
You can put things as simple as a letter from a friend, something cute a child said, a friendly clerk at the store, someone who was polite and let your go in ahead of them in line, someone who held a door for you, maybe a starry night or a beautiful sunrise or sunset could be in your blessings.
Make a daily habit of writing down your blessings. Focus on the positive things in life, even when life isn’t so positive. I know how hard this is to do sometimes, but we really must. Everyone is entitled to feel sorry for themselves for a little while, but that really doesn’t get you anywhere does it? The economy is like the weather, there isn’t anything we can do about it but weather the storm.
It’s so easy to become a Grinch this time of year. We need to focus on what we have instead of what we want or can’t afford to get, or can’t afford to give. Of course, one member of your family who is always happy to see you and doesn’t worry about the lack of Christmas cheer is your dog, or pets. There is no better psychiatry in the world than a puppy licking your face. Dogs won’t let you feel bad for long. They will sit by your feet, look at you with worried eyes, lick your hand, nudge you as if to say, “it’s okay, I’m here for you.”
You can always go to your dog and complain about the world; right the wrongs of politics and your dog will always agree with you and support you no matter what. No wonder dog is man’s best friend! My human friends don’t do that!
If you have a pet, give them a hug and tell them how special they are! If you don’t have a pet, consider one! Visit a humane society or rescue near you, or check out http://www.petfinder.com/ to find some pets that are looking for a forever home. The best way to feel better about your own situation is to do something nice for someone else.
If you can’t adopt a pet, volunteer to help at an animal shelter. They are always looking for cleaning supplies, towels and food if nothing else.
If you have a well-behaved dog who likes people, take it to a nursing home so the residents can get a little 4-legged loving. Animals put smiles on faces, no matter what age. You may be surprised to learn how much that visit will mean to someone.
Christmas is a time for giving, but nobody said it had to be something monetary. Time costs nothing and is the right size for everyone! Giving your time is the best gift. Give your time to a neighbor, friend or even a complete stranger. Who knows, your name may wind up in their blessing jar!
I wish you all a very merry Christmas and happy new year! May your blessing jar overflow!