Gratitude is a Spirit-filled principle. It opens our minds to a universe permeated with the richness of a living God. Through it, we become spiritually aware of the wonder of the smallest things, which gladden our hearts with their messages of God’s love. This grateful awareness heightens our sensitivity to divine direction. When we communicate gratitude, we can be filled with the Spirit and connected to those around us and the Lord. Gratitude inspires happiness and carries divine influence. “Live in thanksgiving daily,” said Amulek, “for the many mercies and blessings which he doth bestow upon you.
Sister Bonnie D. Parkin, "Gratitude: A Path To Happiness", General Conference, April 2007
On this special day, especially, I am thankful for many things. My life is extremely blessed. I definitely have been given much. I have a beautiful, faithful, wonderful, compassionate, generous, selfless, kind, loving (and many other qualities I don't have room to mention) wife. I have been blessed with 3 outstanding, beautiful, healthy, tender hearted, kind, awesome, and strong children (definitely get those qualities from their mom).
I have been blessed with the ability to work, and work from home. I'm grateful for our home, for our vehicles, for our possessions, for our health, for loving family and friends. For living where we live. And more.
But, most of all, I am grateful beyond expression, for being born into the gospel and the true church of Jesus Christ. For having the knowledge of the Plan of Salvation. For having the hope in something beyond this life and all the possibilities with that.
I am grateful knowing we can have divine guidance and protection from the Lord. He is with us. He won't forsake us. Ever.