Gratitude is the Real Secret to Manifesting Your Desires

The universe is governed by the law of cause and effect. Every thought we have brings a corresponding effect in our lives. Our thought lives are far too often preoccupied with the negative feelings that result from our condition. A simple and mysterious truth in life is that our thoughts determine our destiny. If we chose to live life with an ungrateful heart, the resulting effect in our life will be misery and negativity. Through gratitude we attract the things that are positive and fruitful.

Who among us doesn't remember being asked to count our blessings at some point in life? When disappointment, resentment or anger about our perceived misfortune pulls us headlong into despair, those fateful words can cut like lightning through our misery and magically turn our thinking around to a place of gratitude and thanksgiving.

Could this magical quality of gratitude be somehow hardwired into the human spirit? The very act of "counting our blessings" will often calm the troubled heart and bring peace in the very midst of despair.

In truth, our capacity for gratitude has nothing to do with our possessions, our relationships or our positions in life. How often do we notice the sour and ungrateful faces of those who seem to be blessed with so much? Clearly, it is not what you have that determines your capacity for thanksgiving, but what you possess in your heart.

Our ability to overcome, and to rise above the frequent storms of life is directly proportional to our capacity to be thankful for the blessings we have. Gratitude requires nothing more than a willing heart. So, what is the key to unlocking the gratitude in your heart and unleashing the virtue that will transform your life?The good news is that you already have and use this power every day. Who isn't grateful for the positive blessings that come our way?

The reason that we feel so good when things go well for us is that we see ourselves advancing through the good that comes into our lives. But, think about this; we have trained our minds to enjoy the good and despise the bad. What quality is there in the wheelchair - bound athlete who's expression reveals the sheer ecstasy and victory of crossing the finish line? Our very character and integrity are defined not only by the blessings we receive but by the suffering we endure.

Next time you're feeling depressed or angry at someone try listing in your mind all of the positive things about you can think of about your condition or your relationship. Try really hard. If nothing else, remember that you are alive and capable of counting your blessings at all!

Remember, there is always someone less fortunate than yourself. When things don't go your way, remember this great quote from an anonymous source; "Seeds of discouragement will not grow in the thankful heart"