Letting Gratitude Prevail

Take a moment to think back on where you were last year, or even two years ago. Your life, likely, looks different now, for many reasons. Whether it was the news of the pandemic, the reality of life in a pandemic, or dealing with loss of finances, social interaction, or even the lives of loved ones due to the pandemic, we all can recognize that our world has changed. That being said, regardless of all of that, one thing remains true...you are STILL holding on, and with that, you have so much to be grateful for, Sis!

Sometimes, it’s hard to recognize the good because the bad seems to just get magnified. It’s really easy to lose sight of the positive things that happen to you and moments that make life unpredictable and amazing. But, in reality, that’s exactly what you should focus on, and not so much on the challenges and stressors that come to offset you. So, today, you are encouraged to take stock, reflect, and really consider those good things for which you are truly grateful. 

Gratitude is a strong emotion. It gives people a sense of satisfaction, happiness, and even love. It is also one of the emotions that most of us will take for granted. See, that’s what we ain’t fin to do! Sis, let’s commit to embracing our gratitude, recognizing it, sharing it, and using it to continue to build ourselves and one another up. 

Gratitude For Your Opportunities

Everything may not happen exactly the way you want all of the time. But, when it does, Whew! It’s an awesome feeling. Being presented with opportunities for your career or your personal growth is important. That chance to seize those opportunities may not be presented to everyone. Think about it. Have ANY windows opened for you? Have you been given a shot at something that seemed far-reaching or even impossible? 


Gratitude For Growth

Every day presents another chance for you to take steps to fulfill your own hopes and dreams. Have you ever taken the time to really consider the personal growth that you have experienced in your life? Whether it was by learning something new, making a lifestyle change, or even sharing a part of who you are with others, just by taking steps (yes, even one baby step!) to better yourself and, potentially our world, you have accomplished so much! Girl, growth leads to so much happiness and inner peace. That’s something that you definitely don’t want to take for granted. 


Grateful For Your Life

We have always had to deal with losing loved ones. But, over the last couple of years, death has crept in and become a more commonplace thing in many people’s lives due to the pandemic. Families and friends have struggled to deal with the tragic losses, especially of those who were casualties of the Coronavirus. But, Sis, you are still alive. You may even have gotten the virus, but, Sis...you’re still here! Your health might not be perfect. Your body may not look exactly like you want. You may not have everything that you thought you would or should have at this point in your life...but, you are STILL HERE. Life is the ultimate blessing. Let’s honor it with our gratitude. Surely, that’s the most important thing to be grateful for. 

Here are a few strategies to help you to recognize the things that you should be grateful for in your life:

  1. Keep a diary of blessings.

  2. Hold on to messages, notes, or emails that others give you that speak of how you have helped them, encouraged them, or been a blessing in their lives.

  3. Give yourself credit when you do well.

  4. Make a list of unexpected or “bad” things that happened that turned out better than you thought they could.

  5. Show yourself some love (with peaceful moments, a special treat, or even an “all about you” day!). 

Saeeda Ruffin

A seasoned word stylist, Saeeda Ruffin has been delivering creative and authentic content that engages, uplifts, and fosters a connection with her audience for over 25 years. Saeeda is a Philly native, transplanted into the Southland, whose writing is reflective of her eclectic life journey. Author of two children's books, "Dom's Thanksgiving Catch" and "Wilkie Weeks: The Day The Dog Acted Up", magazine publisher, missionary, and mother of a small tribe of 12 amazing children, Saeeda specializes in writing from a place of realness, empathy, and love.

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I’m Honoring Myself

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Knowing When To Let Go (Releasing Toxic Friendships)