Simple Secret

I never fully knew the power of positive thinking
I used to operate in the dark
Barely making it by and walking on eggshells
My life was one step forward and two steps back
Recently, I've discovered a simple secret:
Positive thinking
I've started to be thankful for the simple things in life
Food on the table
Close friendships
Being lucky enough to live by a beach
Once my mindset adjusted, my life began to improve
I began noticing the aroma of flowers in my garden
I got involved in my church choir and soaked in the joy of music
Studying the Bible became a pleasure instead of a burden
I pray for enemies instead of wishing them harm
I've even noticed a difference in my writing
I've always been a dreamer of a life I don't currently live
With positive thoughts and gratefulness,
I have chosen to live the best life I have been given
I remind myself to be thankful for something each day
and to look for positive things in my life
I may not be living the life I was expecting,
but maybe what I was expecting was not what I truly desired
What I desire is peace
With that comes simple pleasures and the power of positivity

"For my part, I am almost contented just now, and very thankful. Gratitude is a divine emotion: it fills the heart, but not to bursting. It warms it, but not to fever.
-Charlotte Bronte

This poem is featured in Chicken Soup for the Soul, 101 Ways to Think Positive.