I came across this little ditty on one of those placemat flyers you find in various greasy spoons… you know, the kind that have funny quips and crosswords to amuse yourself with as you wait for your food.

I’m not usually a fan of platitudes as they tend to be too cheesy or nauseatingly saccharine. Uck.

But this one is very simple and plainspoken—just my style–so it naturally resonated with me.

Be Thankful

author unknown

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’s 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.