Gratitude

Gratitude = To be thankful for the positive and good things in your life. I often struggle with this concept as a human being. When we are in pain or suffer loss, our mindset does not promote positive thinking. We dwell in the darkness because we are consumed by the sadness that is in front of us. We are in a weakened state of despair. The question is “What do we do to get through this process in a healthy manner and become a better person?”. First, go easy on yourself. Allow yourself to feel the feelings you are experiencing. This is a big part of the healing process. Honor your feelings at all cost. Do not pretend everything is fine when it is not. Keep a journal. Write down all your feelings. This allows you to look back and see the great progress you have made over time. It is also a great outlet so you do not keep your feelings bottled up inside. Surround yourself with family and good friends. Talk about your situation openly. Do not isolate yourself. This is very unhealthy. Cry. Crying is an excellent form of healing. Nurture yourself. You are a beautiful and special soul, despite the pain you may be feeling. Treat yourself with all the love you have. Go to a movie. Movies often bring out suppressed emotions, enabling the healing process. Practice acceptance. Accepting life on life’s terms requires great humility and is vital to the healing process. This one action alone will bring you great peace. Love. Offer love to yourself and the situation or people that you feel hurt over. If we act out of love, we will always make the best choices. What does this have to do with the martial arts you say? It has to do with life and the martial arts is a way of life. It is not just about being the best kicker or puncher. It is about being the best person possible in life, especially when things are not going your way. You will often hear me say, “It is easy to be great when things are going you way”. The question is, can you be great when things are hard? This is what builds character and helps us become better people.