According to Dr. Michael Brickley, a psychologist who focuses on issues related to aging, more and more senior citizens are living healthy and active lives into their 80’s, 90’s, and even over the century mark. I’m glad to hear this as I turn 80 myself next week.
In his studies of these “successful seniors,” Dr. Brickley has isolated 4 common elements. The first is a sense of gratitude! These “successful seniors” are grateful for the gift of life! The other 3 elements are — a proactive approach to life, a desire to learn and to grow, and an optimistic attitude……
“Even though I clutch my blanket and growl when the alarm rings, thank you, Lord, that I can hear. There are many people who are deaf or have a great difficulty hearing.
“Even though I keep my eyes closed against the morning light as long as possible, thank you, Lord, that I can see.Many people are blind with macular degeneration and retina problems.
“Even though the first hour of my day is hectic, when the toast is burnt and tempers are short, thank you, Lord, for my family and friends. There are so many people who are all alone.
“Though the food on the table and in the refrigerator is at times unbalanced and not the healthiest, thank you, Lord, for the food I have. There are so many people who are hungry.
“Even though my daily efforts are routine and often monotonous, thank you, Lord, for the opportunity I have to do work. There are many people who are disabled or are looking to find a job.”
We need to remind ourselves that God is the source of everything that is. When we say THANK YOU, it is a reminder of the One who is the source of it all.
To live a long, joyful life, gratitude ought to be the dominant theme of our lives, not just on Thanksgiving Day, but as seen through Thanks-living all year long.
I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart, I will tell all of your wonderful deeds. Psalm 9:1
Thanks to Pro Church Media for the picture.
What does the term “Thanks-living mean to YOU?
I THANK GOD FOR PROTECTING ME FROM WHAT I THOUGHT I WANTED AND BLESSING ME WITH WHAT I DIDN’T KNOW I NEEDED!
