A Grateful Heart

 "Happiness is a grateful heart" is written on a bookmark I keep in my scriptures.  I love that!  It  is so very true.  Today I was lucky enough to attend the Firetrail Ward primary program and was so grateful for the words and songs that were shared.  I don't think it's possible not to be happy listening to sweet little children share gospel truths and sing their  hearts out while waving to family and friends and sometimes dancing around.  It was adorable!  The Holy Ghost confirmed the truthfulness of what they shared and I am so grateful to know that Heavenly Father loves me, my family can be together forever, and living the gospel is what really brings happiness. 

     It sounds so simple...Although all of that is true, life often seems hard and frustrating! So many things are pulling us in different directions we can feel overwhelmed and underappreciated.  Trials weigh us down and it's hard to look around and see all of our blessings.  Maybe we can all try something new.  The next time feelings of despair, anger, hurt, sadness or whatever negative emotion bombards us, let us be grateful.  Remember something good in life.  The sunshine, your child's giggle, a sweet word from a friend, your spouse who helped out in some everyday way, anything!  When we are grateful we find happiness.  Burdens are lightened and life just seems easier.  Make the choice to be grateful, express thanks to Heavenly Father and those around you and enjoy the blessings of a happy heart!

     Here's a poem that sums it up much better than I ever could:

                 Be Thankful

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire,

If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something

For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.

During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations

Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge

Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes

They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary

Because it means you’ve made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.

A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are

also thankful for the setbacks.

GRATITUDE can turn a negative into a positive.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles

and they can become your blessings.

Author Unknown

Lauri Ferguson

Arlington Stake Primary

2nd Counselor