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3 Blessings
3 Blessings
Not every day of my life is particularly great or packed with wonderful experiences. Some days just call for a stiffer drink than the night before. However, once I took the time to think back on what positive events actually happened throughout the day, it was clear that I had a lot more to be thankful for than I gave credit to. I have an unfortunate habit of letting one day slip into the next and before I know it weeks have passed by. Doing something as simple as “counting blessings” every night was a refreshing reminder of how comfortable my day to day life is. I’m not regularly faced with struggles such as racism, sexism, discrimination or any other kind of intolerances. I don’t live in poverty and hot water is always on tap. If my biggest problem is paying a digital cable bill or having enough money to go snowboarding, I think I’m doing just fine. This exercise reminded me of my circumstances and how they could easily be a lot worse.
A few nights over the past two weeks I tried to influence my dreams. However, I happened to get sick about 10 days ago. I didn’t realize it at first, but Nyquil has the unique ability to give me completely random dreams. Over the span of about one week, I managed to dream up things like my car getting stolen and then me going into a huge rage over it. I also dreamt up a scene between Ray Liota and Tony Soprano. Later I had a dream where I ran into a former co-worker who I haven’t seen for a year. None of which seemed to relate to what I was trying to dream about. I think I might have to try this activity when I’m not under the influence of a sleep aid.
Jeremy,
I couldn't agree with you more. I had things really out into perspective the other day when I was speaking with someone I work with and who is a dear friend who is on SSI and he mentioned how the price of eggs has increased by 40 cents recently. He went on to explain that his grandfather had told him that you could tell when things were about to get really bad finacially for everyday people when the price of eggs increased. At first it all sounded a bit strange but when I put it into perspective it made much more sense. Suppose you are on SSI and you get 600$ a month-you live in subsidised housing which is say 400$ a month. That leaves $200 for bills and food. When you have maybe 25-30 dollars a week top spend on food-you notice a 40 cent increase on eggs. But many of us (including myself) wouldn't even blink an eye...and we are lucky for that.
I am thankful that I don't have to worry about the price of eggs, that I can easily spend 4 dollars on a latte and that I am strong enough physically and mentally to be able to work and support myself. This exercise served as a wake up call to notice how blessed we are by the things we take for granted.
I felt the same way doing this intervention. We are so lucky when you get down to it. Hot water rules!!