I feel terrible. I have a rotten dose of something that has my stomach doing somersaults, my joints screaming in agony, and my head wanting to explode. I’m looking at the week ahead with something approaching a quiet desperation. I have to travel. Pack a bag. Get on a plane. I have an inbox full of unanswered emails and a to-do list that stretches into November. Two of my plants – Fred and Ginger – look like they’ve given up the ghost. And I have no idea when I’m going to find the time to start my dissertation. I could go on but I’m boring myself… As I wonder what I could be grateful for this week, I remember a poem that did the rounds a while ago:

Be thankful

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire,
If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something
For it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times.
During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations
Because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge
Because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes
They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you’re tired and weary
Because it means you’ve made a difference.

It is easy to be thankful for the good things.
A life of rich fulfilment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.

Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.
Find a way to be thankful for your troubles and they can become your blessings.

Author Unknown

So, this week, I’m grateful that I’m sick because it reminds me of how well I usually feel. And I’ve made a mental note to self not to take good health for granted.

Note: For a reminder of what the Grateful series is about, check out Grateful 52