The Art of Gratitude

I find that in the many parts of my life, being grateful is a very important virtue that I have been able to keep a close tab on. It’s part of my inventory list of affirmations in my life’s blessings. Having been lovingly reminded by another friend of mine of the April’s full moon, I am to celebrate the goals that I have achieved  on my bucket list.

Vegetarianism was the very first article that I submitted to Elephant Journal. A day after my submission, I got an enthusiastic letter of response. I was accepted to be an official indie journalist for them. I was thrilled! There were two other writer friends of mine who, in the past, had applied to them, but unfortunately didn’t get in. They heard that I got approved, so for the second time, they pitched in their article, but unfortunately, they were denied again.

I felt even more appreciative for the fact that I was accepted, not taking this for granted. I’m in fact looking forward to writing future articles at Elephant Journal, as one of their official contributors.

Vegetarianism is a meaningful part of my life’s journey. I am so grateful for having to share my journey by writing an article about vegetarianism with others. Having the staying power to be on a path that I have consciously chosen feels good. My article was informative and entertaining enough for those who truly understood it. It even was fun for me to see that after five  days of its online launch, the article had gathered more than 3K readers with 84 reposts. This is very encouraging for me, and I sincerely feel that with more time, my article can reach more people. You can read my article here, and share it if you wish!

It’s so fulfilling to know that the power of my pen has its special place where it belongs. Whether it’s for a niche, or perhaps curious and open minded individuals who are willing to venture and seek out for new possibilities, I’ll let my article roll its own punches. I am excited to raise the enthusiasm of other vegetarians out there, and maybe even garner the attention of non-vegetarians as well.

But for now, I have more ideas to write out, and I have several books on my work table to pursue. One of them is my autobiography, Maya The Shaman.

It’s important for me continue the practice of gratefulness. There’s so much for me to be grateful for. And I must say, in seeing the world’s man made tragedies, misfortunes, and inhumane acts by those who are on the dark side of life, it’s more important than ever for us to love life and to fill our world with just that, love and light. We need to refocus on all the good things happening in our personal lives on a day to day basis. This will help raise the frequency in our individual lives as well as the collective. As we do this together, our planet will vibrate with new energy and strength. Light and love will be the strongest forces on earth.

Find gratitude in your daily life, big or small, it doesn’t matter. The little accomplishments you have achieved, the ones that you micromanage on a daily basis in all areas of your life, are just as important as the big ones. They can be as simple as taking five minutes to stop and meditate, taking a little bit of time to stretch or exercise, or even going out of your way to help someone else. It can be anything! When you finally mark your work complete, you are able to feel all the gratitude that is present. At the end of the day, the list that you have created for yourself gives you fulfillment and the feeling of accomplishment.

Everyday, I challenge you to create your daily to do list. By marking each one off as complete, you are one step closer to your accomplishments. Below are a couple of questions to ask yourself everyday?

  • Have you looked into your mirror to tell yourself you love yourself today?
  • Have you given yourself five to 15 minutes to meditate?
  • Have you given yourself time to stretch, practice yoga, or walk?
  • Have you affirmed for a positive feeling or thoughts to come in?
  • Have you taken the time to help an animal or a plant in need?
  • Have you taken time to nourish yourself more than once?
  • Have you taken the time to learn anything new, that is of interest to you?

If you haven’t downloaded my guide to a healthy and balanced life, feel free to grab one for yourself below: