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.

We hold on so tightly that our hands are unavailable to reach out for the happiness we could gain by letting go.

Gratitude is a feeling of fullness, a recognition of the heart of what we are receiving in this moment.

Like so many other positive acts, it turns out that hugging boosts our immune system. Plus it just plain feels good! So hug someone today, perhaps a person who seems particularly in need.

Gratitude connects us to others and feeling gratitude allows us to be our best selves. When we are truly grateful, we can count on living the life we want

We can't wait until everything is OK-with us or with the rest of the world-to feel thankful, or we will never experience joy at all.

Take a deep breath and think of the three things you are grateful for, right in this moment.