Happiness is not getting everything you want; rather it’s being grateful for what you have.
The Aiken characteristic for the month of November is gratefulness. As Thanksgiving approaches, there is heightened attention to thankfulness and expressing the things we are grateful for. Gratefulness is the key to happiness, and humility is the key to peace. Gratefulness is self-less. It’s related to love and peace, and achieving it takes awareness and understanding.
There is someone I wanted to recognize this month for gratefulness as I have witnessed her exhibiting gratefulness on numerous occasions through the authentic show of thankfulness, happiness, and appreciation in all she does. A humble smile and peaceful and positive presence follows this person into every environment, event, work site, celebration, relationship, and interaction. I don’t think this level of grace, respect, honor, duty, and leadership is achieved without the spirit and presence of gratefulness. This person replied to my request of recognition with gratefulness, thankfulness and humility, and then gracefully asked to be excluded from the article so all recognition could go to God. What better show of gratefulness than selflessly to transfer the praise away from herself by acknowledging someone greater than herself?
What are you truly grateful for?
Have you expressed your thankfulness for it? All living beings must breathe, eat, and sleep to stay alive. We all have that in common. Have you consumed a meal today? Did you sleep under a roof last night? Every day that I can breathe, eat, and sleep, my basic needs are met, and I am so grateful and thankful. This creates a sense of happiness for me each day. This month, try to focus on what you are grateful for, complain less, and try not to compare yourself to other people or situations. You are talented, you are blessed with life, and all of us have twenty-four hours each day to execute actions driven by purpose filled intentions.
Has someone else helped you accomplish something?
Are there others who have labored before you? Do you require help to accomplish things of great substance, or can you do everything alone? Do you recognize and/or appreciate that others contribute to your quality of life? Do you recognize, respect, and appreciate people who are different from you? I’m so grateful for those who have come before me, and I recognize that their work and actions allow me to be grateful.
What is your intent or desired result?
Who has accomplished it before? Operating in a spirit of gratefulness creates humility and truth. Who are you grateful for? Thank them this month, and tell them that you are grateful to have them in your life.
There are many ways to show gratefulness.
Saying thank you; being polite, kind, and patient; praying; having understanding, tolerance, and respect for others; helping someone in need — these are all examples of gratefulness. Gratefulness acknowledges that there is more than oneself, and it expresses recognition and gratitude for being a part of the greater good.
This month, let’s continue to be kind, forgiving, honest, and most of all grateful. And let’s communicate gratitude to the others we are grateful for! I’m grateful for the opportunity to support Aiken Bella Magazine and grateful to everyone who has read this column! Have a great day, a better week, and a grateful November.
Byron Bush is the Director of Business Development for Empowered Global Solutions, Inc., a certified Woman Owned Small Business specializing in engineering, IT, environmental, construction, supply chain, safety, finance, and administrative staffing & recruiting.
He is also the President & CEO of Bright & Bold Entertainment and B&B Network, LLC – a network of people and businesses who help each other develop business, wealth, and leadership.
Byron was born in Ellicot City, Maryland, raised in Aiken, SC, and he works to make every day a great day.
