Dose of Optimism #4
How to be Grateful During a Pandemic
It’s hard to talk about gratitude when the world feels like it’s falling apart. But it turns out, that’s EXACTLY the time we NEED to have gratitude front of mind. Like Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you…because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”
Yes, this is an unexpectedly and unbelievably complicated time for so many of us. But it is also a time to pause and be grateful for what we do have. It’s hard to see sometimes, which is why a gratitude jar might help.
What is a gratitude jar you ask?
It’s just an empty jar with a pen and a pad next to it. And when ever the mood strikes (or the mood is needed) you write something you are grateful for, and put it in the jar. When the jar is too empty, remember to fill it. And when it is full, read thru them and start over.
Maybe today we can all start our own gratitude jars and remind ourselves (and any other people in our home) to share a bit of gratitude for what we do have. Because more than likely if you are reading this, you have more than others.
And that itself is something to be grateful for.
Here are three things you can be grateful for as part of today’s Daily Dose of Optimism:
Lots of us are feeling the urge to help others, especially those who are food insecure in this moment of crisis. Fortunately, there are some amazing organizations stepping in to get food and medical assistance to those who need it. Check out this list to see how you can help them. (via Buzzfeed)
You know who else is helping? First responders. Today cartoonist Mike Luckovich create a great image that will inspire gratitude for those healthcare and emergency response workers who are on the frontlines. Earlier this week, people all across Spain opened their windows and applauded them. Maybe we can all do the same? (via the AJC and Local Spain)
We know so many of you would also be grateful to get a bit of support for your businesses, projects, and nonprofits. So if you want to share your needs, offerings or opportunities, fill out this form so we can all share and help out.
That’s your daily dose of optimism for the day. Did you enjoy it? Then maybe forward it to your family and friends who also could use a dose of optimism. Have an idea, suggestion or feedback you want to share? Email us here.