by Vernon Huffman

Created on: December 10, 2008   Last Updated: January 13, 2009

"Gratitude is the key to happiness, while deep joy comes from voluntary service of others."

It is never too difficult to find reasons to be grateful. Somebody else is always worse off. "I was feeling sorry for myself because I had no shoes, until I saw the man with no feet." If you have consciousness to contemplate your happiness, you're already better off than those who no longer have this gift. You're literate enough to read these words. That fact alone puts you into the fortunate half of humanity.

When we are honest with ourselves we admit that every breath we take is dependent upon a series of miracles. It is a great thing to be a small part of a living planet creatively experiencing the limitless possibilities of the universe. Touch a plant now. Consider the intricacies of how plants and animals exchange breath, the cycles of water on our planet, or the ease with which you can learn more about the wonders of our world. What could be more perfect than being alive in your exact space this very moment?

The magnificent gift of life is temporary. Nobody gets out of here alive. Life itself has proved to be fatal in 100% of the cases studied. None can be assured that their lease on life will not end abruptly in the next second. Our grasp is completely tenuous and conditions far beyond our control could cut any of us out of the picture at any time. Resolve to enjoy every moment as if it were your last, for it may well be.

It is pointless to fear death. We will all taste it eventually. Until then, why speculate about what, if anything, lies beyond the veil? It is equally pointless to fear life. While we live, we have a choice to live or die. Once dead, does a choice remain? Who can say? But today, we have the opportunity to choose to live however we will. Why not embrace life boldly and live without fear?

Celebrate every moment by doing the best you can possibly imagine. Inspirational stories abound, telling us about amazing lives threatened by potential disaster, but lived to the full by brave individuals. You are the author of your own story. Although you daily face circumstances beyond your control, you decide how you will react. Your attitude wll determine your outcome.

What do you value most? How do you demonstrate your values day to day? Are you an example of how life is meant to be lived? Whatever has happened in your life was absolutely necessary to bring you to this precise moment. How will your values influence your choice today? Who deserves your service right now?

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