I believe in the power of positive thinking. I believe no matter your circumstance, every person has someone or something to be grateful for. I found this infographic [see below] a couple years ago [please note, the information may no longer be exactly accurate]. I saved it to my computer so I could continue to be reminded that I should be grateful for many things I often take for granted: clean water, access to education, good living conditions, good health, and general safety. These things seem so basic, so rudimentary…it is difficult to imagine life without them. I think appreciation is an artform. It takes time to think about all we have to appreciate, but it is well worth the time commitment.

Though, it is not just the basics we should be thankful for. I think everyone should take some time each week and list the small things that make life beautiful, here are a few of mine:

Hand written letters.
Waking up two minutes before my alarm clock goes off.
Walking Riley the Pup in parks and on bike paths.

Flea market treasures.
Spontaneous dance parties with my best friends.
Lightening bugs and crickets on a hot summer night.
Kisses on my forehead.
Wearing goofy hats with friends.

The feeling of fresh contact lenses.
Driving down winding roads with the windows down and music blasting.
A book that is too good to put down.
When a song comes on the radio that depicts exactly how you’re feeling.
The smell of fresh laundry, especially when it’s still warm from the dryer.

So ask yourself, what are YOU thankful for today?

Here are some responses to the #ThankfulThursday hashtag on Twitter this week:

and my favorite #ThankfulThursday tweet this week, from @fernronay…