When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude. Gilbert K. Chesterton

In the busyness of our daily lives, it is so easy to take a multitude of little things for granted.

We have lost some very valuable assets in this modern digital world.

These assets are so valuable to humanity that I often wonder whether our modern society has actually progressed forwards or have we gone backwards?

There are at least three valuable attributes that have been lost or at least passed into second priority in our modern society:

1. Awareness:
Our awareness tends to be dulled by the attractions of the hi-tech world. We tend to be less aware of the people around us and of the little things which we can be thankful for.

How many times do you see a couple dining out and each of them are either texting, talking on their cell phones, or playing a digital game while waiting for their food. There is little or no conversation between them. (I have worked as a server and have seen this happen all too often).

Awareness of the little acts of kindness and thoughtfulness shown by those around us can get blotted out when we are distracted with technology.

Here is a challenge:

• Stop and look around you.
• Who did something special for you today? Did you acknowledge it?
• What do YOU do for someone today (without their having to ask you).

What things are you enjoying in life, but taking for granted?

2. Gratitude and thankfulness.
When you become more aware of the little graces and joys in life, it is easier to have your heart filled with gratitude.

We all do have so much to be thankful for. If you are reading this, you have a home with a computer in it. You have a bed to sleep in and food to eat. You have family and friends who care about you, and a lot more.

Stop and look around you. What things are you taking for granted?

3. Appreciation an expression of gratitude.
Once you become more aware of the blessings that are showered upon your life daily it will be easier to cultivate a truly grateful heart.

Your gratefulness can then be expressed by showing your appreciation to the people around you and to those who’s paths you cross during the day.

• Do you take the time to stop and thank your business associates and fellow workers for offering a hand when you get behind?
• Do you take the time to notice a bus driver who goes out of his (or her) way to show they care by waiting until you are securely seated before they pull away from the curb?

Once you become more aware of your surroundings I am sure you will discover that there are many things that people do for you every day that perhaps you did not notice before.

• Are you expressing your appreciation?
• When was the last time you sent a heart felt note or card to someone just to say “Thank you” or “I appreciate you”.

Let’s get back to the personal touch and make this world a better place.