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The Gratitude Effect : Discovering the Mental, Emotional, and Physical Benefits of Blessing Counting

A few years ago, I made a life-changing decision: I chose to focus on the positive instead of the negative. That simple shift — choosing gratitude — has profoundly impacted my life and those around me. I learned that it’s impossible to be thankful and negative at the same time because gratitude changes our perspective. It brings joy, optimism, and peace into our hearts, transforming situations for the better.

Expressing thankfulness enhances our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. It strengthens relationships, improves mental health, and can even boost physical health by reducing stress and improving sleep. Most importantly, counting our blessings welcomes God into our lives, grounding us in His promises. As 2 Corinthians 9:8 reminds us, God blesses us abundantly so we can thrive in all things, at all times. When we shift our focus to gratitude, we unlock peace, renewed energy, and strength to stay on the path God has set before us.

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‘Tis the Season to Serve

The holiday season is often filled with joy, connection, and gratitude, but it can also bring about pressure, especially when we start expecting things from others. Instead of focusing on what we might receive, imagine how different the season could be if we approached it with a heart wide open, focused on giving and serving others. The true beauty of the holidays lies not in the gifts we receive but in the love we give—without expecting anything in return. Whether it’s surprising a neighbor with a homemade meal, lending an ear to a friend, or simply offering kindness, we can find joy in the act of giving freely. This holiday season, let’s focus on serving with love and humility, discovering that the greatest gift isn’t what’s under the tree, but the peace and joy we experience when we give from the heart.

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