Reflecting with Gratitude

“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” —Melody Beattie


This week, instead of my regular weekly article, I wanted to take a moment to remind myself, and everyone of you, to take a moment to reflect with gratitude. I’m not talking about gratitude for the wonderful opportunities I’ve been offered; the doors that have been opened for me; or amazing family, friends, and colleagues. These things are easy to be grateful for. I’m talking about reflecting with gratitude on the mistakes I’ve made, the massive failures I have experienced, the friends that turned out not to be so friendly, and the graveyard of skeletons in my closet. For every bone, every failure, and every mistake has contributed to my becoming the person I am today.

Thinking back on every wrong turn I have taken, poor choice I have made, and, what I thought at the time, were life destroying events, I am amazed that I am where I am today; stronger, wiser, and better than ever. These events did not destroy me, on the contrary, they have created a wonderful life for me and made me into a pretty darn good person, even if I do say so myself. I wouldn’t trade who I am to be anyone else in the world.

Yes, sometimes I have taken the rough road and had to learn my lessons the hard way. But, then again, what better way is there? Take a moment today to reflect with gratitude the things that had the potential to destroy you, but actually ended up making you and your life better.