Gratitude Journal

On Sunday in Relief Society we discussed GRATITUDE.

I am grateful that in the church we are constantly reminded of the principles of the Gospel so that when we slip, we'll have a nudge to get back on track.

I've decided to start a GRATITUDE JOURNAL so that I will remain optimistic and count my blessings even on the worst of days.

My feelings will be recorded privately, but I will frequently post them so that I can share the feelings of my heart.

Here are some of the things I've given thanks for this week ...

Monday, February 7th

Today I am grateful for my sight. I've complained a lot over the past few weeks about the itching, burning and discomfort I am experiencing, but I am oh so grateful for the ability to see. I'm grateful for the beauties of the earth, the vibrant colors of a painting, the written word on the page, and especially to be able to look into the eyes of those I love.

Tuesday, February 8th

This morning I am grateful for the mountains. For me they are a source of comfort and beauty. I am always amazed at how frequently they change. Sometimes they appear peaceful and serene, while at other times I am amazed at their ruggedness. Watching the seasonal changes on their distant peaks heightens my awareness of what will soon be coming to our valley. It is on the mountaintops that I first catch a glimpse of the budding of spring, the lush green of summer, the brilliant colors of autumn and the snows of winter. And how wonderful it is to be part of the fulfillment of Isaiah's prophecy that

"...it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it." (Isaiah 2:2)

Wednesday, February 9th

Today I am grateful for journals. I’m grateful for those my grandmother and mother kept because it has helped me to understand and appreciate them more fully. I’m grateful that I have written a record of my life (though sporadically) throughout the years. Sometimes my writings have been long and thoughtful, often a short record of my daily doings, and frequently just a list or a quick note on a calendar or in a planner. I believe that much of what we write is for the benefit of our posterity. I know that my faith and testimony have been strengthened as I look back on the experiences of my past. When my writings are reflective, I find that I am more likely to record the hand of the Lord in my life and to show appreciation for the blessings of the day. I’m grateful for the counsel of the prophets to make a record of our lives. President Spencer W. Kimball said this:

“Your story should be written now while it is fresh and while the true details are available.

A journal is the literature of superiority. Each individual can become superior in his own humble life.

What could you do better for your children and your children’s children than to record the story of your life, your triumphs over adversity, your recovery after a fall, your progress when all seemed black, your rejoicing when you had finally achieved?

Some of what you write may be humdrum dates and places, but there will also be rich passages that will be quoted by your posterity.

Get a notebook, a journal that will last through all time, and maybe the angels may quote from it for eternity. Begin today and write in it your goings and comings, your deepest thoughts, your achievements and your failures, your associations and your triumphs, your impressions and your testimonies. Remember, the Savior chastised those who failed to record important events.”

Thursday, February 10th

 I am grateful today for education & learning. I love gaining knowledge. I’m thankful that I am given opportunities for constant learning. Each time I grasp hold of a new piece of information to improve my mind or my skills, I experience great satisfaction ... I feel like I have taken another step toward defining the complete woman that I want to be. I’m grateful for individuals who are willing to share their knowledge and abilities. I’m thankful for books and technology that allow me to discover a world before unknown to me. I can’t imagine ever accepting that what I know at any given time is enough. It is my desire to be a continual student throughout my mortal life and beyond. At the ripe old age of 87, Michelangelo stated, “Ancora imparo” which means “Still I am learning.” To that I say, “ditto!” I strive to remember what Joseph Smith taught in the 130th section of the Doctrine & Covenants,

18) Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.

19) And if a person gains more knowledge and intelligence in this life through his diligence and obedience than another, he will have so much the advantage in the world to come.