Creating a Wall of Gratitude

You know that something is definitely amiss when Wall Street needs several billion dollars to keep the country from pulling out its financial hair and running for the hills.  Yep, the stock market is in a shambles, which means I haven't checked my retirement fund in, well...  in months.  I've adapted the philosophy that I'm not planning on retiring next month so I've got time for things to rebound.  Yet, it's still sobering to look at your account and discover that the total has dropped by several thousand dollars.  That sinking feeling in your stomach can make you sick. That's why I'm not looking.  No, I'm no ostrich, and no I don't have my head in the sand.  I acknowledge that these are tough times, but I also know that putting a lot of worry into the mix won't make a tough time less tough. 

A few weeks ago I collected all of the thank you cards that I'd been given over the past couple of years and made a collage on my office door.  It's colorful and full of wonderful memories reflecting those times when I've helped someone in a small or big way.  It's a wall of abundance, appreciation and gratitude. 

It's been really comforting to come up to my door and before I turn the knob I'll take a moment and read one of the cards.  Reading the cards always brings up a good memory and makes me smile.  I think I created the collage of abundance and gratitude to combat that desperate, woeful, sinking feeling that's been permeating the atmosphere for the past several months.  Looking at this motley collection of accolades puts a smile on my face, and more importantly in my heart.  It's a testimony of gratitude... a little innocent inspiration to help make it through the toughest of times.

Hey, how are you managing to stay inspired, calm, and hopeful during these tough(er) times?  I'd love to hear some of your great tips in the comments section below.