An Attitude of Gratitude

A wise man once told me that one of the most powerful qualities to possess is an attitude of gratitude. Though as nothing more than a clever alliteration, the phrase stuck in my mind. Several years later, I now realize a great deal more the value of having an attitude of gratitude. Contrary to popular opinion, you do not need to focus on the miseries of the world, or gloat about what you have that others don not. Focus instead on the blessings in your life, and not just the material ones. Pets, family's unconditional love, friends who always have your back, hobbies you enjoy in your free time. For a minute, stop worrying about acting a certain way, and take delight in something small. If you must keep up appearances, acknowledge it only to yourself. The refresh of your drink, the sunshine warming your head, an unexpected text from a friend. With only an act of mindpower you can change your thoughts. Let us use the aforementioned examples.

From "Oh my God, I'm so thirsty" to "This soda tastes so good!"

From "Its so hot" to "Thank goodness its not raining on us!"

From "She never texts me anymore" to "I'm so glad she finally said hi!"

Try having an attitude of gratitude. You'll be amazed how much happier you are. :)

To Write a Memoir

I've been strongly encouraged by numerous friends and family to write a memoir about Trinity, the youth ranch I was sent to when I was 14. It has been an emotional, grueling process, with many outbursts of fury and sadness as I relive the miseries of those 21 months while I write. I have paused to wonder what my motivation is for writing and hoping to publish a book about my experiences at Trinity. I have considered the broken hearts of the parents, especially my own, who sent their daughters to Trinity as a last resort, seeking help, and were given back an even more damaged daughter. Still, I felt compelled to write. It is an as-of-yet untold story of the millions of lives that have suffered, some irreparably, from the effects of psychological trauma. Not all of the girls who went to Trinity are of the same opinion as me regarding Trinity's inhumane treatment of its residents. I have been called dramatic and ungrateful by many. But I have talked with many more of the girls since leaving Trinity who struggled with similar situations as me after leaving Trinity, and I am writing for those girls, and the girls (and boys, too) who are enduring the same trauma even as I write. My pen moves more speedily when I think about it. They are my motivation. I hope and pray that many parents' eyes will read my words and reconsider sending their child to such institutions as Trinity. I also hope that those in places of authority who will be able to take action to stop the abuses will read the book. I am fighting the abuse in a way I know how: through my writing. I've always had lofty notions of changing the world one life at a time. Even if one child will suffer less because of my memoir, it will all be worth it, not only the writing but the experiences too. I firmly believe that we suffer things in life so that we will grow into strong people who can help others when they experiences similar struggles. Who knows, maybe I can save a life.

Please send good thoughts, prayers, and anything else my way that I reach my goal!

Long Distance Pro's?

I am often greeted with incredulous looks when I tell someone I am in a long-distance relationship. I never imagined I would be "the type" to date long-distance, and before now I would have been incredulous as well. However, even though it is sometimes so painful to be separated, I know now that anything is bearable if you are with the right person. Also, there are many benefits to dating long-distance.

I ask you, what areas of your relationship need to be strengthened if you do not think one or both of you could withstand distance? Reid and I never question eachother's faithfulness because we trust eachother completely. We have excellent communication, because talking is the essence of our relationship. Many women crave emotional support and understanding in a relationship. I always know Reid will be there, even if only on Skype or the phone, to listen, comfort, or encourage.

We appreciate our time together infinitely more because we are separate so much of the time. because we are already conquering such a difficult challenge in our relationship, other struggles will be much less challenging because we will be able to communicate face-to-face.

I have learned a little more the meaning of the phrase "love is a decision, not just a feeling." It is a choice, an act of the will. Regardless of the circumstances of your relationship, when the going gets tough, keep in the front of your mind what qualities you admire in your loved one, and remember what brought you together and attracted you to eachother. Remind eachother of them especially, and the spark of your love will be ever re-kindled.

[Side note: All of this having been said, I can't wait until the day Reid and I are together.] :)