Counting life's blessings (2)

This week it would seem that sod's law was operational in full force!  As we left our meeting geared up to start the week anew with a philosophy of hope and optimism, an increased storm of trials and tribulations seemed to be upon us all as we stepped out into the world. 

I think all of us are battling with the temptation to give into life’s little annoyances as they plague us a little more than usual, testing our resolve.  It's the mid-year crisis: end of financial year, nearing the school holidays, work pressures, personal problems, and it's cold and rainy!  But from what I hear, the group is standing proud and facing up to all these little monsters with grace and gratitude!


But it has made me reflect upon the question: does being grateful and grace-filled mean we have to take it all on the chin?

I am no stranger to the words of many great writers, teachers and philosophers that all talk about the importance of acknowledging our emotions.  Negative thoughts and feelings, bearing grudges, stored resentment, frustration and pain all contribute to not only our state of mind, but our state of being - our physical health and strength.  And so whilst trying to meet our temptations with new-found grace, it is also important to take a moment to recognize the emotion that accompanies the situation. 

Our emotions and actions do not have to be the same thing.  We can acknowledge anger, frustration, disappointment, fear, sadness but still go on to act with grace.  In fact, often recognizing how we are feeling often aids the process of letting go of the situation and allows us to move on a little. 

So, whilst practicing the art of gratitude don’t forget to claim a pause for yourself.  Naming the emotion attached to the situation may make your subsequent action much easier.  Recognizing how we feel may well be the glasses that we need to see past the grey with grace-filled eyes.