I AM SO GRATEFUL for meeting challenges head-on.
We see mistakes as learning experiences in disguise,
And reach turning points in times of crisis,
We find serenity in the midst of turmoil--
It's not what happens to us, but what we make of it that counts.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for practicing mindfulness.
Relaxing and going with the flow,
Cherishing each ordinary moment,
Less worrying about what everyone else thinks,
Enjoying the process without being attached to the outcome.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for being true to myself.
I measure my life in good deeds done,
Instead of how many years I've lived,
I live from my heart instead of my head,
Giving heed to the genius that lies within.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for communication skills.
Stating the truth is healthier han holding it in,
Yet it is wise to think twice before talking out of turn,
Say what you mean and mean what you say,
Yet have consideration for another's point of view.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for team effort on the job.
Compliments and praise serve a meaningful purpose,
Associates work together in harmony and peace,
Being appreciated and valued for the work that is done
Conveys a feeling of accomplishment to everyone.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for living with integrity.
Leaving the scene before an argument starts,
Refusing to react to another's bad mood,
Not taking everything said to me personally
Cultivates my practice of self-control.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for changing my perspective.
Employing cooperation instead of competition,
Practicing the art of skillful negotiating,
Compromise clears up unfinished business,
And life becomes much easier for me.

I AM SO GRATEFUL for an attitude adjustment.
When everything seems to be falling apart
A darn good idea is to turn to the Self,
Feel the chaos for only a moment
and understand that life is readjusting itself.

Excerpted from "Gratitude Works: Open Your Heart to Love" by Katherine Scherer and Eileen Bodoh. www.gratitudeworks.com

Katherine Scherer and Eileen Bodoh are authors of "Gratitude Works: Open Your Heart to Love." Published in 2004.