Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity…it makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.

 Melody Beattie

When I was a kid, I used to write down quotes I find amusing or simply beautiful.  This quote came from that collection.  I reread it and smiled to myself.  I dug something from my knick knack box, strolled down memory lane, and found myself writing.

I need to share with you two gifts which truly give life to these beautiful wordings of Ms. Beattie.

All about gratitude:  Appreciation Letter from Second Son

February 20, 2015

It might be an inherent instinct that for men to be perceived as strong, they seldom express themselves.  Or might as well they do not see the need to demonstrate their feelings at all.  This has been my constant struggle when dealing with Second Son.  He is such a very private and quiet person and would rather sit in one corner listening to his radio or reading his books.

Yesterday afternoon, though, he handed a letter he wrote himself.  It was a thank you letter he needs to submit as a requirement in GMRC.

All about gratitude: Appreciation Letter from Second Son

His letter came with a do-it-yourself- envelope or more of a pouch with an edge stitch.   It  had a clear flip-top lid with a button and buttonhole to make sure that the letter inside was well-kept and safe.

All about gratitude: Appreciation Letter from Second Son

All about gratitude: Appreciation Letter from Second Son

I thank you, Second son, for appreciating me and my efforts.  I complain, too, many times.  I cried a lot because sometimes it feels I cannot handle anymore.  But reading this letter made me stronger and grateful that after hardship comes fulfillment and appreciation.

I love you, too.

All about gratitude:  A mother, a friend, and a playmate

July 17, 2014

It was the boys’ mastery exam and we spent our weekend reviewing.

One of the stories we read was “The Story of My Life” by Helen Keller.  In the story, Keller narrated how her teacher Ms. Sullivan helped her communicate and “see things” even if she was blind and deaf.  The story-teller regarded Ms. Sullivan not only as her teacher, mentor, friend but also as a mother whose nurturing and caring ways allowed her to grow just like any normal kid.

By the end of the story were a few questions and I was speechless with what I have read.  I felt something was pinching my heart.

All about gratitude: A mother, a friend, and a playmate

Thank you, dear Lord– such a wonder to know that some kids do appreciate their mother.

admberlin