G iving thanks is a calculated choice, not just a
R esponse to warm, fuzzy feelings,
A aroused by a serene environment and an inner personal peace. To be
T hankful involves the seat of your will, not just the seat of your pants,
I ntuition gained by work and intentionality,
T ested over time in murky waters when emotions and motives were impossible to
U nderstand, when it would be much easier to sulk and voice the
D readful, dark components than look for the silvery grains of gold that in
E ternity are the jewels that will last.
*****
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A p r o n h e a d -- Lilly Green 
Well stated my friend! Being grateful in good times is second to breathing. In difficult times, its like breathing with COPD!
Yes, indeed! Gratitude and rejoicing. As in the Scripture from Paul–Rejoice I say to you, rejoice always–it’s not always an automatic reflex at all. Sometimes indeed an effort of the will, and allowing the Spirit to take over the prayer part!
Some are born with a more positive and grateful leaning; others of us glass half full folks š need to work harder at it!
š Good illustration, for sure, Patty! Cough, cough.