When Gratitude Gets Weaponized
The silent obstacle.
If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a billion times: Be thankful for everything you have right now, in this moment. The part you might’ve missed is be thankful, but never satisfied.
Weapon of Mass Destruction
Most of the population, anywhere, is broke. The term broke means something different to each person you ask. It might mean any amount from $0 to millions. But, it describes 95% of people on earth…when compared to the top 5%.
That said, gratitude is one culprit behind this preventable plague of not-enoughness. If this sounds contrary to anything you’ve heard or believe, keep reading.
You see, folks wield gratitude like a machete to chop away at the dreams of the majority. If you’re thankful, there’s no need to strive for more.
Settle for the job you hate, and be thankful even if you can barely pay your bills. Can’t afford the constant repairs your old worn-out car requires? Be thankful you can drive to that crappy job…on the days the dang thing works. Wearing the same 3 outfits all week, in different combos? Be thankful for your creative styling talents. And on and on. BE THANKFUL!
The message is deeply entrenched into your psyche. Accept shit, and be grateful. And you do, without noticing the damage to your life.
Allow this to be your wake-up call.
The Name of the Game is Dissatisfaction
Here’s the sweet spot. Yes, always appreciate what you have. It can all disappear in an instant. Your money, your friends, your home, your car, your freedom, even your breath! A genuine grasp on the possibility of these losses is gratitude. Otherwise, you’re taking them for granted.
Caveat: Do not confuse this concept with the idea of manifestation. In conscious manifestation, gratitude is being thankful for future outcomes in the present. It’s living from the end.
But, this next part is also crucial for living the fullness of life. Never ever be satisfied (read: stuck at a standstill). You are a limitless, energetic being whose purpose is to expand. It’s natural to want to be more, do more, have more, and want to give more. It goes against your nature to put a ceiling on your personal growth.
You can test your levels of satisfaction by asking yourself important questions.
- How do your current results feel in your body and mind?
- Do you often find yourself resentful, angry, or envious?
- What material things do you want but don’t have?
- What experiences do you yearn for that haven’t come to pass?
- Are your relationships thriving? Why, or why not?
- How do you feel as you answer these questions?
It’s 2024
This is the greatest time to be alive (says every generation, I’m sure.) There are more opportunities and advancements in just about any area you can name. Go forward with curiosity and a willingness to demand more of life.
Live in gratitude, but be careful not to use it as a roadblock. It’s your time to soar! I’m rooting for you.
I’m Jonesy, an artist, writer, mom, and dreamer. Thanks for reading.