Chapter 1: The Gift of Life

Every single day we spend on this planet is a precious gift. While it might sound overly sentimental, acknowledging this reality can significantly enhance our lives! When we rise each morning with a heart filled with gratitude, we set ourselves up to achieve wonderful things. The key is to start each day by appreciating the opportunity for another meaningful experience.

Of course, not every day will go smoothly. There will be tax deadlines, relationship challenges, and those mundane errands that seem to drag on. Yet, if we can find gratitude in simply being alive, even the tough days can be infused with joy. Sure, tax day can be frustrating, but it pales in comparison to the finality of death. Each day we are alive is a reason to count our blessings! If you feel like you're out of luck, just remember to count the blessings of those around you. Even on our worst days, there are countless reasons to feel joy, and happiness is truly infectious.

Let me share a bit about my day. I could find reasons to be frustrated, but I've opted for a life filled with gratitude. This morning, I woke up at 4:30 AM, which is much earlier than my usual 6:00 or 6:30 AM start. My fiancé was thrilled about a golf outing and was up early, which made it enjoyable to see his excitement. I took my time, relaxing until I jumped in the shower at 5:30 AM.

I showered early because Sean needed the car for his golf trip. At 6:00 AM, he drove me to work, and we stopped for coffee and a bagel, enjoying a chat along the way. Normally, I don’t need to be at work until 8:00 AM, but I rarely get to spend weekday mornings with Sean. This extra time together was a refreshing change.

Upon arriving at work, I unlocked the doors and set up my classroom, deciding to check emails and grade assignments from my evening college students. Most of the emails were from students who had fallen behind and were submitting late work. While I could feel annoyed—since it was the last week of summer classes—I was grateful they were communicating their challenges, which is a key expectation I have.

By 7:30 AM, I had graded all assignments and responded to every email. Feeling a bit adventurous, I stepped outside for a few moments before diving into my day job. Unfortunately, when I turned to re-enter, I found the door had locked behind me. The upstairs office staff had secured the entrance, and I hadn’t brought my keys. It was entirely my fault. I could have reacted with frustration, but instead, I chose to laugh and enjoy the unexpected time outside until my boss arrived, who also found the humor in the situation.

So, by 8:00 AM, when I typically start my day, I had already accomplished quite a bit and had a mini adventure to boot. I had worked with my students, shared lunch with colleagues, and completed much of my evening grading ahead of time. Later, I have a meeting from 4:45 PM to 5:45 PM followed by a class at 6:00 PM. I prefer to schedule these meetings during the week to keep my weekends free. This class will be the last one before the fall semester, giving me a little breathing room.

My 18-year-old is at work and checked in cheerfully today, while my 16-year-old humorously replied to my request to take out the trash with a “Who’s this?” It could certainly be worse. Instead of waiting for the worst, I choose to focus on happiness in my current situation. Life can be long and hectic, but my heart is full of love for the people, places, and work in my life.

Every day offers a choice: we can either dwell in misery or embrace happiness. I know which option I prefer. We have just one life to live. A few years back, I might have dismissed this perspective as naive, but I encourage you to give it a try. Each day, strive to leave a positive impact on the world. Choose joy, maintain gratitude, and focus on the bright side. It can be life-changing—believe me!

Chapter 2: Daily Inspiration

To further inspire your journey towards gratitude, consider this insightful video: "Wooden's Wisdom: Make Each Day Your Masterpiece." In it, John Wooden shares profound insights on living a fulfilling life.

Additionally, check out "Make Each Day Your Masterpiece | Daily Momentum 1/6/20," which provides practical advice on embracing each day with intention and purpose.