Even in uncertain times, it’s always important to keep things in perspective.
True wealth is the ability to fully experience life.
– Henry David Thoreau
- You are alive.
- You are able to see the sunrise and the sunset.
- You are able to hear birds sing and waves crash.
- You can walk outside and feel the breeze through your hair and the sun’s warmth on your skin.
- You have tasted the sweetness of chocolate cake.
- You didn’t go to sleep hungry last night.
- You awoke this morning with a roof over your head.
- You had a choice of what clothes to wear.
- You haven’t feared for your life today.
- You have overcome some considerable obstacles, and you have learned and survived.
- You often worry about what you’re going to do with your life – your career, your family, the next step, etc. – which means you have ambition, passion, drive, and the freedom to make your own decisions.
- You live in a country that protects your basic human rights and civil liberties.
- You are reasonably strong and healthy – if you got sick today, you could recover.
- You have a friend or relative who misses you and looks forward to your next visit.
- You have someone with whom to reminisce about ‘the good old days.’
- You have access to clean drinking water.
- You have access to medical care.
- You have access to the Internet.
- You can read.
The truth is, you’re doing better than a lot of people in this world. So remember to be grateful for all the things you do have. (Read The Happiness Project.)
Photo by: Vinoth Chandar
Marsha says
I loved reading this article. I feel truly blessed for so many reasons. I have multiple sclerosis, diagnosed 1986. I am 60 years young. Not only can I see a sunset, I can paint sunsets. I started painting because I was a cosmetologist and make-up artist who no longer could stand and work. I love working with my hands. What a joy to know I can paint beautiful landscapes, oceans, flowers. There is no end to what the human spirit can accomplish when we never give up but open up to more and better. Life didn’t end for me, it opened a new passion. Anything is possible when you are open to change. Loved this article and appreciate those who shared it.
Terri says
Interestingly, we don’t realize that we are in the top 10% of the wealth in the world if we had enough to eat today, if we have a roof over our heads, and if we have enough clothes to wear. Sobering to think that even at what is considered the poverty level in this country, it is still in the top levels of the wealth in the world.
margo says
Very inspirational for me at a very difficult time in my life . Thanks.
Cheyne says
I live in London. It’s Winter. I have a day job. No birds singing, no waves crashing, no warmth on my skin. It’s still dark when I leave for work in the morning, and it’s dark when I leave to go home.
None of that matters though, I don’t get put out by this type o’ stuff. Happiness is what you make it!
JD says
Do not ever forget this. Ever.
Ashish Kumar says
These points are spot on. Most of the people live happy, luxurious and a life full of necessities. They dont have to crave for basic necessities like food, water, home and yet they complain.
Bello says
Even 1 out of 19 is enough to keep you happy in this temporal life. A big ‘thank you’ for that.
Anita says
Great thoughts! Inspiring!
Stella says
I thank God for His little mercies…please forgive me for not saying thank you enough.
Thanks a lot Marc and Angel for reminding us!
Sipho says
I am greatful even if my heart still wants happiness but willingly i will strive to find it.
Anne Gonzales says
Often we forget to look at our life and realize that we have a lot to be thankful for! Right on!
Nathan Argenta says
This is a POWERFUL post. #1 (You are alive) is the MOST important. We should be so grateful, thankful, and feel truly blessed to be alive. Everything else follows through based on #1. Thanks for the great post! 🙂
Neesh says
I understand being grateful, but how to do channel out the stress that doesn’t let you feel any happiness…
Nandu says
A wonderful post which came in handy at a very important time in life .