Sometimes, my emotional state has been like the crazy swings of the spring weather, going through cold spells and warms spells, rainy days followed by crystal clear skies. As with many other people, I often feel at a loss on how to stabilize this turbulence, but find that appreciating those everyday things which I often take for granted inevitably brings some serenity to the soul.

How wonderful it is to have enough to eat and drink; to have a roof over my head; to live in a safe society where I can go out anytime without fear; to be able to breathe fresh air; to be able to get around with reliable transportation; to earn enough to have my physical needs met comfortably; and an infinite number of other things which I too often forget about.

Perhaps one of the greatest sins is not to instill our spirits with gratitude for all of these blessings, especially when the vast majority of the world’s people have to live without them. We are fortunate indeed. Giving thanks regularly can be one step towards creating heaven within us, a potential which each and every person can cultivate.