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. In his studies of these “successful seniors,” Dr. Brickley has isolated 4 common elements. The first is a sense of gratitude! They’re 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 who are deaf.
“Even though I keep my eyes closed against the morning light as long as possible, thank you, Lord, that I can see. Many are blind.
“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. There are many who are 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 we have. There are so many who are hungry.
“Even though my job is routine and often monotonous, thank you, Lord, for the opportunity to work. There are many who are looking for work.”
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
