Daily Self Growth Journal

Realizing Value

“Just think how happy you would be if you lost everything you have right now, and then got it back again.” Francis Rodman

Then Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, 'Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.' I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent. Luke 15:3-7

Recoup: “regain (something lost)” New Oxford American Dictionary

Have you ever had a dream you lost something of great value to you? I know I have, and I'm sure you have as well. While that kind of dream can be miserable, there is not a much better feeling than waking up after the nightmare of losing something precious to find out it was all a dream. Dreams like that are useful at putting perspective on the value of the things we have. It's easy to fall into the trap of entitlement, expecting what we have as something we deserve, then taking for granted its value. Everything we have is a gift and we are lucky to have it. I'm not saying we should obsess over the things we have, but we should strive to remain grateful for them. What's more, if we live like we couldn't be happier with what we have, chances are we will be rewarded with more things to be grateful for. What boss would want to promote an employee who constantly complained about their job as if they weren't happy to have it? Even if that employee was good and affective at their work, their attitude would probably prevent them from excelling. Likewise, what uncle would want to buy their nephew a Swiss Army Knife if they knew their nephew didn't appreciate the toys they already had? I think it's clear, gratefulness breeds good will towards us and opens the doors for more blessings, more gifts, and a deeper happiness. Let's try to be happy with what we have and realize the value of our blessings, so that we won't have to be reminded while trying to recoup them after their loss.

Daily Journaling Questions:

How did I help someone in kindness today?

What did I learn today?

What am I thankful for?

Who did I love today?

What about today do I want to remember forever?

What are my goals for tomorrow?

Thanks for reading, and hopefully I'll see you back hear again tomorrow.

Jake