Ask Mark Ward

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Raise your Gratitude.

In the United States, it is our tradition to use this day to give thanks for all of our blessings.  It is my hope that all of you, no matter where you live, no matter when you are reading this, will take a pause and give thanks, today.

It is so easy to be consumed by the trials and tribulations of life. Sometimes things do not go as we planned, wished or hoped. Yet, despite it all, we are still here. We are still breathing. And that, alone, is a tremendous gift. 

Gratitude is a muscle that needs to be exercised.  If we ignore or refuse to acknowledge it, we will find ourselves consumed by stress, depression or apathy. Direct your attention to that which IS, rather than that which is NOT, remembering that with breath, there is possibility. 

This will be my first holiday season without my mother. When I feel the deep sadness of her loss, I allow it; but, I use it as a reminder that I am here. Because of her, I am here.  

Thank you, mom, for giving me life.

Thank you, mom, for teaching me how to be kind.

Thank you, mom, for teaching me how to be compassionate.

Thank you, mom, for teaching me how to be strong.

And thank you, to all of you, for taking the time to read what I have to say. I appreciate you.

Happy Thanksgiving!  We ALL have something for which we can be grateful.

Success or sabotage?  Be mindful not to take your life and all of its simple delights for granted. It is only in the fullness of wanting what you have that you get what you want.  

Is this going to be an incredible day?  Be thankful that we have the opportunity to make it so.