What we can or cannot do, what we consider possible or impossible, is rarely a function of our true capability. It is more likely a function of our beliefs about who we are. Anthony Robbins

How easy it is to begin to define ourselves by the things that we lack. I am not smart enough. I am not talented enough. I don't have enough money  - I am too old - too fat - too thin - too set in my ways to do things I want to do in life. Yet inside each of us lies the amazing power to change our lives.

Recently, I noticed a friend referring to her life as "before I got sick" and "after I got sick," as though they were two separate lives. It struck me then how eager we are to define ourselves by our external surroundings and how easily we let go of our own control of our lives.

Many of us may catch ourselves referring to life as "when I was young" and "as I got older," as though they too are separate lives. Yet, few of us stop to consider that the changes that have befallen us are a result of defining ourselves by our lack - a lack of health - a lack of youth - instead of the abundance we have in our lives.

Cultivate the art of defining yourself not by lack but by abundance, today. Give thanks for what you have and embrace your God-given ability to change your life according to your desires and beliefs about yourself. Let go of old hurts. Banish thoughts of real or imagined lack today and embrace all the is good in your life, that you may regain the power of self today.

Today, I am grateful for the rising sun, for clear blue skies, and leaves that shimmer in gold at morning's first light. I am grateful for birds who meet the new day with a song in the soul, for flowers that spring from tiny green buds, and for squirrels that scurry to meet the day.


I am grateful for cool clean air, for the mist that rises with each new breath, and for dewdrops that reflect the sun. I am grateful for trees clothed in summer green, for sound of wind chimes in the morning breeze, and bees.


I am grateful for family and friends with who I share my life, for strangers who offer as smile and continue on their way, and for children who are eager for the freedom of summer.


And, I am grateful for you dear reader, as you stop to share my day. May you learn to define your life according to your abundance and  never by its lack, as you go forward in the direction of your dreams.