The girls and I have just come from seeing Cameron Crowe’s new movie We Bought a Zoo. The film is based on a memoir by an Englishman named Benjamin Mee. It stars actors Matt Damon and Scarlett Johansson and is a feel good movie that makes you remember that despite the gloomy economy (or whatever else may be getting you down) there are many reasons for which to be thankful. Seems a good way to start the New Year, don’t you think?
Most people start their New Year by giving something up or promising to do something differently. Well, I’m starting 2012 by counting my blessings. So here are the top 10 things I’m thankful for:
1. My lovely Irish husband
2. Our two sweet girls
3. Our good health
4. The roof over our head
5. Not going hungry
6. Having (lots of) friends
7. Knowing how blessed we are
8. Believing in God, faith, miracles, love
9. Having hope
10. Being part of a large family (origin and marriage)
As you can see, my list is quite simple. Sometimes simple is best. If you made a list of the things you were thankful for, what would be on it? Keep in mind, the point of the exercise is not to be creative and puff yourself up but to stop, take stock and appreciate what you’ve really got right now. Have you got a list? If so, write it down or recite it in your head. You can even buy a Gratitude App and keep track for the entire year. In fact, that’s what I’m going to do…I’m going to use the journal my daughters bought me for Christmas and write down at least five things each day I am thankful for. Supposedly, people who regularly keep a Gratitude Journal increase their happiness by up to 25% over those who do not.
Imagine…25% more happiness just for making a daily list. Care to join me? In fact, how about this…be the first to join me and I’ll send you a Gratitude Journal of your very own. How’s that for a New Year challenge? Think about it. Send me a list of the five things your thankful for today. The first person to write-in will win the giveaway. Good luck and athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh (Irish for “happy new year”).
In an Irish Home 