Expressing Gratitude Can Make You Happier – 11 Quotes

Posted on November 14, 2019December 21, 2019 by Evelyn Parham

Did you know that expressing gratitude can make you happier? It’s been scientifically proven. Gratitude and happiness fit together like a hand in glove.

Thanksgiving is almost here and it is the time when we focus on being more thankful. We can be thankful all year long and according to the research, it’s probably an excellent act for us to do, because it helps us be happier.

I’m a Happier Person

I used to feel like I was the worse person in the world because my child has Down syndrome, I would be lying if I told you I no longer have those feelings.

Honestly, it’s a feeling that will never, ever go away as long as I live, but I’ve learned to accept the things I cannot change and live life.

One action that has helped me is expressing gratitude. Instead of focusing on the negatives (what I don’t have), I look at the positives (what I do have – could be worse) about my daughter.

Gratitude has helped me see with eyes wide open that what is deemed as something, bad, negative, and a curse is actually not any of that.

The more I’m grateful the happier I am to have a kid like the one I have. These days, I don’t have time to wallow in self-pity, because I’m too busy watching the little soul blossom.

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Don’t Wait Until Your Life is Fixed to Live, Live Now

Posted on April 6, 2018April 17, 2019 by Evelyn Parham

focus-now While reading in my devotional book, I decided to share this passage with you because it relates to anything in life.

“When you focus on what you don’t have or on situations that displease you, your mind also becomes darkened. You take for granted life, salvation, sunshine, flowers, and countless other gifts from Me. You look for what is wrong and refuse to enjoy life until that is fixed.” – Sarah Young, Jesus Calling: Enjoying Peace in His Presence

The Perfect You

We focus on perfection. The perfect body, weight, skin, hair, and life. There are many things for which we are striving to perfect.

However, when we are displeased with anything about ourselves or that which we are trying to accomplish, it closes off our minds to the possibility of success.

I Want to Quit

I started the blogging challenge, and I have done well, but I want to quit.

The reason I want to quit is that I don’t think anyone is reading my posts. But I know that is not the case, because I have a steady flow of traffic. It’s increasing a little each day.

The blogging challenge is not the only thing I want to quit. There are a few other things in my life that I want to stop doing, but I have to keep plugging along until I figure out what works.

I refuse to focus on what I do not have or on those things that displease me. So, I’ll keep on going.

I will keep showing up every day in every area of my life and doing the best I can (even when I’m not in the mood), right now. Eventually, something will stick.

Final Words

When we focus on all that is wrong, we don’t even see that which is good or what’s possible, even when it is staring us in the face.

Be grateful for everything you already have, move forward, and build on that.

Focusing on that which we already have makes for a healthier, happier, and peaceful mind.

Let’s focus on all the beautiful things we have in our lives. Look around; beauty is everywhere.

Until next time.

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I am Thankful for these Precious Gems

Posted on December 1, 2016December 3, 2016 by Evelyn Parham

I know the Thanksgiving holiday is over, but it is the season of gratefulness. The inspiration for this post is from Alexandra at Fun and Fit. Today, I share with you three people I am thankful for being in my life.

A week ago, I shared with you a few of my favorite gratitude quotes, but this week I have to acknowledge a few precious gems in my life.

My Husband, Bennie

I am thankful for Bennie believing in me and investing in my dreams. He is my biggest fan and encourages me.

Bennie works hard so that I can stay home and teach our daughter. There are times when I get discouraged, fearful, and I think I am wasting my time, but he always assures me everything will be all right; I believe and trust him.

Bennie is a remarkable person, and I am thankful to share this journey called life with him.

My Daughter, Hannah

Those of you who are long-time readers of my blog know that my daughter has Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome).

Hannah brings me so much joy, and there was a time when I did not feel any joy.

Side note: Smiling on the outside, crying on the inside.

When I stopped being depressed, I began to see how wonderfully and fearfully made Hannah is. She is truly an amazing little person with a joyful heart.

Recently, while preparing a meal for Hannah, I was feeling down; she put her little arms around me and said, “I love you, Mama.” My heart melted, and my spirit immediately lifted.

Hannah brings joy and happiness to everyone she meets. I am thankful that she is alive, happy, smart, talented, and doing well.

My Friend, Ms. Linda

I learned in a college developmental psychology course that the older we get, the smaller our circle of friends gets. Although I did not believe it when I took the course, some twenty plus years ago, I am a believer today.

Linda is not only my daughter’s speech therapist, but she is also one of my closest friends. I am thankful for my dear friend, Linda.

Linda is one of the sweetest souls I have ever met. She is genuinely a caring person with a big heart

Whenever I talk with Linda, and we talk about many topics, I always feel a lift in my spirit after speaking with her. Some people are a pleasure to talk to, and she fits the bill.

Final Words

Expressing gratitude is an action we should do every day. It is healthy for the mind, body, spirit, and soul.

Do not let another day go by without saying thank you and being thankful for everything and everyone in your life.

There are two words that I believe that everyone loves hearing and that is, “Thank you.” Have you said it lately?

Photos by Evelyn Parham