The top five things to be grateful for

The top five things to be grateful for

A lot of people (me included) will be glad to see the end of this year. With being locked down for most of the year, many people losing their jobs and all of us frustrated with all the limitations and rules, it has been a year to forget.

But no matter how bad you think you have it, no matter how many painful experiences you have had, there is always someone who has it a lot worse. We need to put things in perspective and realise we actually have it pretty good compared to so many others.

1. Health

“Well at least you have your health” is a well-worn phrase people say when going through tough times.

We often take our health for granted and it is only when we are sick, that we realise just how true it is.

Being healthy is THE most important thing in your life – more than your job, friends or family. Having seen loved ones go through cancer, Parkinson’s, dementia and mental health challenges, it makes me so grateful I am able to move without pain, have all my faculties, and can enjoy everything life has to offer.

2. Location, location, location

You win the lottery when you are born in this country. Sure Australia isn’t perfect but we have so much to be grateful for when compared to other countries.

Fresh food, water you can drink straight from the tap, clean air, a generous welfare system, a safe environment, technology, fantastic weather, a modern health care system, high wages and generous benefits gives us a standard of living which is the envy of the world. We really are the lucky country.

3. Friends and family

Being surrounded by friends and family is one of the most wonderful ways to spend your time.

No matter how small or large, good family and friends cheer your successes and support you when the chips are down. Always be thankful for them being in your life.

4. The great outdoors

How lucky are we to have so many national parks, some of the best beaches in the world beaches, sparkling cities and the beautiful countryside. With many of these places right on our door step.

Even though I am Sydney born and bred, I am amazed at how many places I keep discovering. One of my greatest pleasures is to go on a hike and spend time in nature and appreciate all its beauty on display.

5. This is the best time to be alive

Our life expectancy has never been higher, we have never had such fantastic technology to make our life easier and more convenient, and we have never been richer.

Think about the generations before us and what they had to go through – disease, war, poverty, depressions – for us, life has never been easier.

So if you ever get down or complain about some first world problem, just remember you have so much to be thankful for. Life has endless opportunities – so live in the moment and enjoy all that you have.

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