Eternally grateful...

Today is a day for counting my blessings.

Sometimes I think its hard to do that.

Hard to be grateful for the things you have.

Especially if you stay focussed on the things that 'could have been' or 'should have been'.

But then if you take time out to see the pain and suffering of all those people around who are less fortunate than you, so much less fortunate - then you realise how much you have, so much of everything. In abundance. Love, family, friendships, smiles, intelligence, luck, education, family, friends, chances, opportunities, optimism...

So I decided to count my blessings today and remind myself how much I have to be grateful for.

• A son who I love so dearly, for everything that he is, says and does - and doesn't :)

• A husband who pampers me and silently cares for me, supporting and encouraging my every choice, decision - a rock solid pillar!

• Parents who are and have been loving, caring, attentive, intelligent, sharp, humourous, supportive, encouraging... who gave me a strong foundation of a sound education, values and a simple yet privileged upbringing, in so many ways...

• A sister and her family that are a constant source of inspiration. With her beauty, intelligence, determination, grit and endless energy, she makes me realise there's so much more to learn...
  

• I found a new family in my in-laws - and they became my strongest and most formidable advantage while facing some of my life's toughest adversaries and challenges. And in my mother-in-law I found an easy friend and confidante...
  

• A home that I look forward to coming, day after day after a tough and tiring day at work. It's filled with smiles, warmth and a nurturing environment for my son. And home-staff that keep it going, even when I'm out travelling, looking after the daily needs, keeping it spotless clean, and good wholesome warm food to come home to!
  

• And how could I forget a dog @ home - who loves me unconditionally whether or not I have a kind word or gesture for him.
  

• Friends I've made since childhood and cherished and friendships that have grown over the years, teaching me so many things along the way.

• Colleagues who sometimes became lifelong friends with whom I share an easy candour, banter and sharp conversations that keep me current, rooted and real.

• My work that keeps me on my toes, challenges me, gives me the mental and physical stretch that I so love, and so defines me. Its fulfilling and helps me meet so many intelligent, sharp, funny, accomplished, talented, and qualified individuals and teams.

• And then there are the weekends that I so look forward to - for the space they give me to relax, explore, read, write, spend time with family and friends, a visit to the temple perhaps, the spa if you will, a chance to network, talk, listen, share, care, walk leisurely, eat, drink, sleep, unwind, music, do some community service when time permits... and so much more!

So here it is. The next time you feel there's not much to be happy for or to count yourself among the lucky few, remember to take a step back and make your own little list of 'things and people I can count on', and a list of 'the joys and blessings that fill my life' kind of a list.

You'll be amazed at how much you have to be thankful for.

I did and I realised once again, I have so much to be grateful for.

Eternally grateful.