Suffering is given to you that you might open your eyes to the truth.
Anthony De MelloRead
Gratitude is like a flashlight. It lights up what is already there. You don't necessarily have anything more or different, but suddenly you can actually see what it is. And because you can see, you no longer take it for granted.
Interpretation
Gratitude helps us appreciate what we already have by illuminating our awareness of it.
This quote emphasizes the transformative power of gratitude in our lives. By likening gratitude to a flashlight, the author suggests that expressing thanks can reveal the beauty and value of the things we often overlook. It doesn’t add anything new to our possessions or experiences; instead, it enhances our perception and awareness, allowing us to genuinely appreciate what we have, which helps us avoid taking them for granted.
In practice
In a speech about mental health, you could use this quote to emphasize the importance of gratitude in fostering a positive mindset.
Suffering is given to you that you might open your eyes to the truth.
I would not rob you of your food or your clothes or your umbrella, but if I caught your German out I would take it. But I don't study any more,- I have given it up.
If the single man plant himself indomitably on his instincts, and there abide, the huge world will come round to him.
A great deal of intelligence can be invested in ignorance when the need for illusion is deep.
We are told, that the black bear is innocent; but I should not like to trust myself with him.
I've told several writers this, and, again, I get back to it, but if you want to make God smile, tell him your plans.
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