Gratitude: Shame’s Nemesis

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Shame destroys. Nothing tears us down like feeling as if we need to apologize for our own existence, and when we are constantly embarrassed about any part of our lives, we have fallen into its grip. Looking in the mirror and saying nasty things to yourself is never going to make life better; the only thing that will bring true and lasting change is gratitude.  I haven’t known a person who was really grateful and unhappy at the same time; in fact, it’s almost as if the two cannot coexist. This is why I believe there is power in dwelling not on what’s been lost, but on what’s left. Even if you have an injury or struggle with a chronic condition, train your mind to focus on the things you can