Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it.

~Dalai Lama

Celebrating what we already have is the foremost path to abundance. Seeing the goodness in life, being content with it, and not wanting the abundance of another can improve our overall well-being.

It is challenging to stay grateful when we look outside ourselves; this slippery slope leads to jealousy or feelings of scarcity, which are the opposite of abundance. Thoughts are the foundation for creating the life we want, so avoiding those thoughts contrary to what we wish is paramount to fortifying feelings of gratitude.

Although others may have more things, such as a bigger home, a newer car, trendier clothes, and more money, those external things do not indicate happiness or well-being.

We also do not know the behind-the-scenes truths of many who display overt abundance. Are they healthy? Are their relationships loving? Are they living a whole and generous life? Or are they allowing their egos to generate wealth without the balance of returning the energy to others or society?

Living fully engaged in the moment allows us to focus on now. Blinders such as mindful attention prevent comparison with others and help celebrate what we have, bringing a contentedness to the present.

Becoming more attuned to the loveliness and miracle of each moment arrives when we practice mindfulness. When we stay in the moment without thoughts of the past or the future, gratitude is fostered and extends to all areas of our lives.

Life is not always smooth, yet it is always bountiful. Adjusting our thoughts to find gratitude in life’s challenges that arise gives our souls growth opportunities. It involves recognizing there is something to be thankful for, even when it appears there is nothing. Another area that encourages gratitude is giving, supporting others, and lending a helping hand. Engaging in supportive gestures to give selflessly cultivates gratitude. It also reminds us of the appreciation we experience when we are also on the receiving end.

Gratitude turns what is, or what we have, into plenty because it opens up the richness and bounty of life. Perspective is a gift; it helps to give meaning to what is. Remember what you do have before you allow ungrateful thoughts to slip past your lips. A home, warmth, electricity, plentiful food, running water, communication devices, and the ability to have a leisurely gathering with friends.

Often, those with less are most generous; those with less spare time will carve out time for those in need, and those with less money will offer assistance however they can. Stop the envy when you see those with plenty. Instead, look at the simplicity of those with less and see the abundance they create with what they have.

Abundance is realizing that nothing is to be attained because we already have it. We have been conditioned to gain something. We practice mindfulness to achieve enlightenment. However, it is about remembering that we already have everything. It takes unlearning to let go of the desire to gain or attain, and accept being all we already are.

 

     The Buddha once said there are two kinds of people
who are hard to find in the world:
“The one who is first to do a kindness,
and the one who is grateful and thankful for a kindness done.”
This is the Buddha telling us, that we each should seek to be both kinds.