Appreciation

I was reading a book yesterday regarding stress and it stated that instead of dwelling on your stressors, you should take the time to appreciate the good in your life. Oftentimes people, including me, do not do this.

Whereas I have my share of stressors, I do have much in my life that I do appreciate. I have my pets (2 dogs and a cat) who give me unconditional love. I could not function without them. They make me so happy, especially when I'm down. They make me laugh so much that soon I forget (or put it aside) what I was worried about. Just cuddling them makes me feel good.

I appreciate that I have a house to live in with my pets. At least I have someplace to live; many people do not. At least I have a job, where many people do not. Even though I'm not happy at the job and am currently on medical leave (a workers' comp injury), I appreciate that I'm employed.

I appreciate my friends immensely. I don't know what I would do without them to listen and support me. I also appreciate my two sisters; they seem to be the only immediate family I have. Even though we're all so different, we do love each other and work very hard on our fragile relationships.

Even though I have several medical conditions and a little more because of the injuries I sustained in February, I know that I will eventually recover from these injuries. Many people have very serious medical conditions or are paralyzed; I do not. I need to take the time to appreciate the health that I do have. I think that if I eliminate many stressors, I will eventually feel better and perhaps recover quicker and be relieved from some of my ailments.

I appreciate that I have my sight and can sit outide with my pets to read and enjoy the nice weather. I love flowers, plants, trees, grass, blue sky, puffy white clouds, and birds. I get to experience that each day. I do take the time to "smell the roses."

I just need to take the time to appreciate more in my life rather than dwelling on all the negative things. I need to remind myself of this and practice it several times a day.