Psalm 28:6-7 (MSG) I'm shouting and singing my thanks to God

Psalm 28:6-7 (The Message)
A David Psalm

^6-7Blessed be God -
      he heard me praying.
He proved he's on my side;
      I've thrown my lot in with him.

Now I'm jumping for joy,
      and shouting and singing my thanks to him.

Yesterday, my wife and I were discussing a friend who was involved in a terrible accident.  In the moment, I was struck but what a gift every day is.  What a gift we have in every moment that we have with our loved ones.  Even though, in these moments we understand the magnitude of these gifts it is all too common that after some time we tend to take these gifts for granted.  The daily, instead of becoming a gift, becomes routine.

There is a way to turn the tide on this attitude of the routine, the accepted, and the mundane.  The first step is daily reminders of the gifts we are given.  This is in daily time with God, whether in prayer or meditation, or something similar.  Something, and some time, that should help us make that connection with our higher power.  The second step is in gratitude.  Taking no moment or experience for granted.  Making use of every minute.  Share emotions and thoughts to let people know you care.  And, it should go without saying, thank God.  Do it loudly.  Thank him Joyfully...Shouting...Singing - just like it says in Psalm 28 above.  Taking these steps will start to turn the tide on your attitude and in your life's path.  At least, that's what I've found.

Dear Lord, this is the day that you have made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.  Thank you for this day.  Please help me use it to be an instrument of your peace - that I would bring light where there is darkness.  All to often, I take these gifts, of yours, for granted.  I become distracted from what is truly important and don't use these gifts fully.  Today, I will make a more conscious effort to recognize the great opportunities that this day presents and show my gratitude by making the most of this day.  I will also show my gratitude with a joyful and positive attitude - showing that God has answered my prayers.  For I am sober and free of my addictions and that is reason enough to be joyful.  Of course, God, I pray that you be with those who struggle with addiction - guide them to a place where they may see that recovery, in your word, is possible.  I pray that you may answer their prayers the same you answered mine.  It is all these things I pray, in the name of your son and our savior, Jesus Christ, AMEN.

Thanks for letting me share.