An Attitude of Gratitude

The Saints and Sages have long said, "Gratitude is the key to prosperity." Whenever we want to create something new in our life, giving thanks for that which we already have puts us in the powerful flow of Creation. The greatest gift we have been given is the glorious gift of Life. We open a Universe of possibility when we begin each day with the acknowledgement, "Thank you for this day! Thank you for this Life! Thank you for the Divine Presence within me (the physical body) as Me (the I AM Presence)." Gratitude acknowledges that there is a Supreme Creative Power that is much greater than our small sense of self that is always there to support us. By acknowledging that Power, we begin to develop a personal relationship with IT (Capital "I," Capital "T"). IT begins to work powerfully in, as and through us. We realize that we are not alone in our Journey through Life, and that we live in a benevolent, supportive Universe that is always moving us in the direction of growth and expansion -- even if at first it doesn't seem like it.

This week, I'd like to share with you an extraordinary practice of Gratitude. May it prosper you and assist you in creating 2012 as the best year of your life so far!

1.   Begin by sitting quietly in silent meditation. Visualize the Flame of the Divine in your Heart. Give thanks for the Presence of God that dwells within you (the physical body) as You (the I AM Presence).

2.   Visualize your Inner Child. Your Inner Child is your joy and spontaneity. Give your Inner Child a shape and a face. Tell her how much you appreciate her. Give thanks for her. Feel your Inner Parent (the Heart) send love to your Inner Child. Feel any old wounds transform under the Power of Great Love.

3.   Visualize your ego. Give thanks for your ego. God is everywhere present. There is no place in the Universe, not even one fraction of an inch, where God is not. Therefore, even your ego is Holy, Sacred and Divine. Your ego has served you well by keeping you safe. Acknowlege your ego for a job well done, and give it permission to let go. Feel your Inner Parent (the Heart) love the ego with its Absolute Might. Feel the power of Love evolve the ego so that it becomes clean, clear and healthy, knowing that Love Conquers All.

4.   Visualize your loved ones and friends. Give thanks for their Presence in your life, for without them, you would be facing life's Journey Alone and Perfect. There is great joy in having Companions on the Path. Give thanks for them!

5.   Visualize someone with whom you are presently experiencing conflict or discord.  Give thanks for their Presence in your Life. Acknowledge the lessons this person is teaching you - including compassion, loving kindness and patience. Notice how this relationship enriches you in perhaps unexpected ways. Notice how you are a greater person having been in relationship with this person.

I wish you much joy with this practice! We would love to hear about your joys and successes! Use the Ask the Messenger feature on this page to share your own insights about gratitude with me!