LESSON FROM A GRUMP

For years I had a scrap of paper posted on my fridge, with the antidote to becoming a grump. Do you want to know what it said?

Before I tell you, let me explain what motivated my quest to keep this prescription on hand.

Neighbors In Contrast

It all started when I worked as a therapist at a rehabilitation hospital and observed the stark difference in the attitudes of elderly patients.

One in particular had an archive of ailments that rivaled the number items on a holiday grocery shopping list. She was a hemiplegic, arthritic, osteoporotic, and half blind — and that was just for starters!

But this woman with the debilitating physical condition was cheerful.

Smarts For Life And Love

The drapes in the cheerful woman’s room were open to let in the light. Cards and flowers of well-wishers were displayed on every available surface.  One could often hear the murmur of conversation and laughter. Nurses and therapists were always greeted with a pleasant smile and an appreciative, “Thank you so much, dear!”

A Fridge-Worthy Saying

It was there and then that I decided I was never going to become a grump. And it was shortly thereafter that I heard Elisabeth Elliott speaking on the radio, and raced for a scrap of paper to write down this quote:

“It is always possible to be thankful for what is given rather than resentful over what is withheld–one attitude or the other becomes a way of life.”

The quote hung on my fridge for years.  It reminded me that gratitude isn’t just for Thanksgiving. It’s for every day. Gratitude or ingratitude becomes a way of life. One patient’s physical condition was far worse than her counterparts, but her attitude was far better. And that made all the difference.

Choosing Thanksgiving

So today, what will it be?  It’s your choice.

It’s always possible to be thankful for what is given rather than resentful over what is withheld–one attitude or the other will become a way of life.

Mary Kassian is an award winning author, popular speaker and distinguished professor of woman’s studies. She offers spiritual smarts for life and love.

APPLICATION: How is gratitude working for you? Please leave a comment below. Thank you.

I write to inspire people to be real, grow an authentic faith in Jesus, enjoy healthy relationships and discover their life purpose. If this material is helpful to you, please follow me.

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