Gratitude and Admiration Journal

          While keeping an eye on my daughter during her afternoon baths, I take advantage of the opportunity to fold laundry without the “assistance” of my little helper. Several months ago, I was prompted to start reading a few pages from the Ensign before folding laundry. I now look forward to the midday spiritual pick-me-up and my daughter enjoys the extra bath time. Also, for the first time in my life I have been able to read the Ensign each month from cover to cover.

            After reading Vaughn E. Worthen’s article on gratitude in the March 2010 issue, I decided to implement his suggestion to record things I am grateful for in my journal. After a brief period of opposition, I noticed a change in my attitude. I started viewing situations differently and became more aware of the blessings in my life.

            I also became aware of my tendency to see the negative more readily than the positive in others. I did not consider myself to be a judgmental person, but knew I could use some improvement. I quickly saw that I and others tend to be the most harshly judgmental of those closest to us, the people we should show the greatest love and forgiveness. I altered one of the items on my gratitude list to be an attribute I admire in someone else. I began with people I find easy to love and then worked towards people I struggle loving. As expected, I have been more aware of people’s positive traits. I have also received the unexpected blessing of having my heart start to soften towards those who I harbor feelings of hurt and frustration.  

            I have had reaffirmed to me that the commandments to be grateful and not exercise unrighteous judgment are for our benefit more than others. Being aware of the wonderful blessings and examples in my life has helped me become a happier person. A good attitude may make an individual enjoyable to be around, but the main beneficiary is the positive individual. The spirit has once again testified to me of our Heavenly Father’s love and concern for each of us individually. I am grateful that through the miracle of the atonement our weaknesses can become our strengths.