The grass is green

Sickness and death have unique power in putting things into perspective.

Recently I read about someone with terrible health issues. From the sorrow, emerged a deep sense of gratitude.

When I think about it, I have so much to be grateful for it feels ridiculous to complain about anything. I will use this note as a reminder for myself when I’m in a pessimistic mood.

• I was born and raised in a wealthy peaceful part of the world. I have the freedom to think for myself and form my own opinions. I don’t have to worry about my safety when I go outside.

• I have family that I love an that love me. I get to speak to them every day.

• I have close friends who I can fully trust.

• I have a healthy body. I get to exercise, run, and do sports.

• I have my own cozy apartment for myself.

• I have a job that provides enough money to cover all my basic needs and beyond. I actually enjoy what I do at work and my colleagues are really nice.

• I have time for hobbies outside work. I have hobbies that I love doing and that bring me joy and energy.

• I have the opportunity to travel every year and chose the destinations and journeys.

Notice the use of “get”. That is something I’m trying to change in my mental talk. I don’t "have" to do things, I “get” to do them. This way I reframe perceived hardships into blessings.

• I get to go to the office. Many people don’t have jobs, let alone jobs they like.

• I get to cycle in the rain. Some live in climates that are unbearable in comparison.

• I get to work on side projects in the evening. Some people never find the courage to chase their dreams.

• I get to do the dishes. I have the privilege of having dishes (nice ones), running water and food to eat. Not everyone does.

• I get to do the laundry. I have nice clothes to wear and a washing machine. That is not a given.

Somehow we always mange to find things to complain about. But if you think about it, everything you complain about would be a privilege for someone else.

There is so much to be grateful for. Of course, it’s normal to be down from time to time. You should not seek to escape from your emotions.

However, nowadays with social media it’s so easy to fall into the trap of thinking that the grass is greener on the other side.

In those times I want to remind myself that the grass I stand on is beautiful and the grass is greener where you water it.