I keep a gratitude journal in which I record the things I am grateful for. The more depressed and upset I am with my situation in life, the more frequently that journal comes out. Usually my blue period doesn't last long. I can go back and read all the things I am grateful for, and feel cheered to face the day ahead. I try to keep a daily journal of at least five things I am grateful for. Sometimes that list evolves into a prayer of thanks that is, of course, also in the journal.

I also keep any letters or notes of thanks I receive from people in this journal. It is a great mood lifter and comforter for me. I can go forward into the day, knowing that for every bad thing that comes my way, there is a journal full of good things in my life.

I must admit, at the time of writing this I've decided to move the letters to a drawer in my retreat room. There were so many they were ruining the journal binding. Now when I have tea, I pull out my chocolate (my one vice!) and read a note or two.

I record all the verbal compliments I receive here too. This keeps me from getting too down on myself. And I can look back and see how people view me, and if, in fact, that is the way I want to be viewed. Sometimes the compliments lacking tell you as much as the compliments given! It shows me areas I can work on.

It may be your life is miserable and you think you have nothing to be thankful for, but there are some things we can all be thankful for. There is beauty in every life, even if it's just the plant on the windowsill. Or the fact you have a windowsill and a plant to put on it!

Try keeping a gratitude journal for the week. Re-read it and add to it daily and see if you don't feel more content by the end of the week.