This Therapist's Therapy

Each year, after some time in prayer with God, I am given One Word for the year.  It's a word that I believe is given to me by God, to focus on, think about, reflect on, and improve on.  For 2020, my word is Patience.  And I think God gave me this word this year, because over the last few years, I have gotten more and more impatient.  And I believe God wants me to grow in this area. First, let me admit that I have not done well in focusing on my One Word this year, so I will likely need to continue with it again next year, along with whatever word God chooses for me for 2021. But as you know, the year 2020 has definitely been a year for trying one's patience.  I mean, the year started out well enough.  Seeming like it would be a good year.  In fact, my husband and I had planned and paid for a 2 week Hawaiian cruise for our 10th wedding anniversary...something we've been planning and looking forward to for several years.  That was supposed to take place in April.  I had even

I've been thinking a lot about gratitude lately.  I realize I tend to talk about it a lot with my clients, recommending it as a way to improve their mood.  I also realize that I try to practice it regularly, in my own life.  Gratitude is defined as "the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness."  There are a few things that come to mind when I think about gratitude.  First, I think about what a simple, inexpensive, yet profound gesture or attitude it is.  It doesn't usually cost but a minute or two of our time and can with done with no money.  So, why is it so hard to come by?  Why do people have such a hard time being grateful or showing gratitude?  Why is it so hard to appreciate something or someone?  Is it because we're now in a society, or age, in which so much is just expected.  Nothing seems sacred anymore.  It seems like people just think that they deserve anything and EVERYTHING they want or ask for.  And becaus