Count your blessings one by one

The other day, I decided to write the acknowledgements page for my first book. I have never really bothered reading them before, but as I started to write, I realised how important it is to thank those who contribute in some way to the finished product.

Writing a book is not a solo effort. It may start out that way, and sometimes it can feel very lonely as you struggle with a difficult passage or tear your hair out over a character. A writer spends countless solitary hours in front of a computer screen or scribbling in notebooks crafting that perfect story.

But behind the scenes are numerous people. Some of them, like beta readers or people in your writing group can help with the process itself, whether spotting inconsistencies and plot holes, helping to develop ideas and characters, or just pointing out that you've missed a punctuation mark. Then there are the cheerleaders. They may not even like reading or ever pick up a book for pleasure, but they are right behind you, urging you on and believing in you when your self-esteem is at rock bottom. You may even be fortunate enough to have someone very special who supports you as you follow your dream, making it possible for you to actually do the thing you love so much. It is right that we acknowledge those people.

It got me thinking about life in general. How often do we stop and say thank you for the blessings we have in life? It's easy to moan and gripe when things go wrong, or obstacles come our way. Some people make a habit of it, until it becomes their default setting. I'm sure you know a few people like that. I prefer to look at the half full glass, concentrate on the silver lining, or search for the light at the end of the tunnel. When you make a habit of seeing the good in a situation or in the people around you, your feelings of contentment soar and you become thankful for the smallest things, enriching your soul in the process.

When I was in the shower this morning, I realised how blessed I was to have an abundance of fresh, clean, warm water. At a time when people are panic-buying petrol and the media are scaremongering about Christmas shortages, I am thankful for my freezer and cupboards of food, for the fact that I have a car, and that I have people I love who will share laughs and a meal, even if I don't end up with the traditional turkey.

Try it for yourself. At the end of each day, write down five things that you are grateful for. If you really want to set yourself a challenge, put down ten and don't repeat any of them for the rest of the week.Write yourself a daily acknowledgements page in the story of your life.