When Elizabeth Barrett Browning wrote the poem ‘How Do I Love Thee?’, she would have never envisioned her quote remaining prominent following her death in 1861. As it goes with artists and musicians, we never know which piece will become famous. It may have been one they wrote while having a difficult time getting to sleep one night, or it may be the one following a sudden loss. The artist’s brain is a complex soil and beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder, because our masterpieces do not surface until the planted seed has sprouted. My question for you is this, have you taken the time to count the ways? I’ll offer you this quick uplifting exercise.

Take out a blank piece of paper and make a list of everything that you’re thankful for in life. You may want to compartmentalize and make separate lists for family and people who you care about, as well as your work and life in general. Look for the silver lining in the gray clouds that you’re experiencing and whatever you do, don’t hold back. By the way, when your eyes water up because you’ve invested in yourself and your feelings, remember this next thought. We’ve got a lot to be thankful for in life, and there are a lot of people from our past and present who are God sent. Although we may not have known it at the time, as with artists, we need to remember their positive influence on our lives. When you’ve finished, reach out and tell someone about what you wrote down, how they showed up in your exercise, and why you appreciate them. Congratulations, you’ve just made someone else’s day! Ultimately, paying it forward by counting the ways will continue to reap positive benefits throughout the entirety of your life.

Thanks, Elizabeth, for doing your part! Now it is time to do mine…