Attitude Of Gratitude - Friendships

In the past, I was taking things for granted, and did not appreciate the things given to me or the people surrounded me. It was to the point of some resentment because I did not like my situation. That feeling of stuck, overworked and underpaid, unappreciated consumed me. It clouded my lens to look for things to be thankful for.

Then coaching transformed to my life. Even though as a Christian, I was taught to be thankful in all circumstances, I forgot to practice it. Coaching reminded me to be grateful in any situation. The worse thing happened to me – yet I was grateful it did not turn into something worse than it was. I learned to practice gratitude in all circumstances.

Gratitude is a practice of appreciation, recognition and honor for something or someone. I am beyond grateful for the precious friendships I have with some of my girlfriends. I get to be comfortable to be myself and say what is on my mind in front of them.

I am thankful for Vera. We have known each other since first grade. At some point we actually lived in the same building. After she moved to England, we did not get to see each other as much, but we wrote letters (yes, ancient days, but I love receiving handwritten letters). These days, we talk to each other on the phone at least twice a month.

Amy, whom I have known for over 20 years – her daughter was my flower girl. Although we live several hundred miles apart, we usually get to see each other several times a year.

Then there are my local girlfriends. My women core group. You know who you are.

I am grateful for the love, support and encouragement you all give me. All of you will not hesitate to help me when I am in need. You all lend your ears to listen. We share our laughter and tears together. You appreciate me as who I am. You give your constructive criticism with my well-being in mind. This mutual appreciation and support have carried me through challenging times.

Are you grateful for the friendships you have? I have always believed that it is more important to have a few close friends than to have many acquaintances. I also believe that it is essential to have at least one close friend whom you can trust, whom you can share your aspirations and fears, whom you do not hesitate to help.

If you do not have a close friend, I encourage you to find one. The special bond we get to form with another person is priceless. It increases your wellness, and it gives you the opportunity to love and serve another human being.

The wonderful friendship you have with a close friend serves as a gauge for how to treat yourself. Are you appreciating you? Are you loving yourself? Are you being kind to yourself even when things do not go well?

Be grateful for your close friends. If you do not have one yet, set out to find one. The experience of this special human connection is priceless.