I don’t remember where in the plethora of self-help/positive thinking literature I have that I read about the near miraculous power of being thankful, but I concur wholeheartedly.  Seeing the movie, “Girl Rising” with my daughter Aurora this past Wednesday made me stop and think about how fortunate we are in the USA.  I wouldn’t trade my life now for a million dollars if it was offered to me.  I was, as was my daughter, lucky enough to be born in a place and a time where we do have the chance to control and to change our destiny.  Next week I will be able to cast a vote to determine who will represent my city as mayor.  Had I been born before 1920, that opportunity would not be available to me.  Had I been born in many of the other countries in the world, some featured in the above mentioned documentary, I still would not have the right to vote, nor even the right to an education or to choose if, when or who I marry.

Taking some time to think about the privileges and opportunities available  to me and the blessings that I have been given makes me feel rich.  I may not have a million dollars in the bank, but I really do have so much to be thankful for.  I have healthy kids, a good job, a roof over my head, plenty of food to eat, and the freedom to make decisions that can change my life.   That is worth more than money!  I can’t say I would pass up a million dollars if my lottery ticket ever had the right numbers, though 😉