In times of despair, sometimes all you have to say is “Thank You.” And for a few moments, you will feel as if your burdens have disappeared.

Thank You – 2 words, 8 letters to show gratitude for everything in your life; what sucks, what works, your friends, your family, your antagonists, current lovers, past lovers, unrequited loves.

There’s a Latin phrase for this state of acceptance and gratitude.

Amor Fati  

Love of one’s fate.

This isn’t surrendering; it’s a moment when you show appreciation for all you are.

Most of us prefer to keep the dastardly deeds and unpleasant parts of our lives hidden. This is key. However, we are NOT our habits or actions. Those activities define our behavior, and our behavior is not who we are. Who we are is closely aligned with why we do what we do. 

The why is how we define our character; in this life, our character is who we are to fulfill our destiny..

In the movie The Family Man, Jack Campbell (Nicholas Cage) says, “The biggest part of judging character is knowing yourself.” He made this claim to let others understand he knew what he would do in any situation. Spoiler: The movie is about fate and destiny.”

Knowing yourself isn’t a new concept. It is, however, the most important lesson you will ever undertake.

African Sacred Wisdom (2) (“The Mysteries”) charged its students to “Know Thyself.” This proverb is inscribed on the walls of the Temple Luxor in Egypt.

An ancient culture still in existence: the Yoruba people speak of Ori (1), an individual’s human consciousness and destiny.

When you show appreciation for all that’s in your life, it forces you to take inventory of life, and when you do, showing gratitude may be the one action you can take to help you determine if you’re on your path.

Say “thank you” for it all. In the grand scheme of things, it’s what makes you, you. If you don’t already know and love yourself, love yourself; start by being grateful.

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