There was a time in my life when I was very angry, almost all of the time. Let’s just call it “My Twenties and Early Thirties.” I have no idea why I was angry. I just was. I said that the anger kept me going. It was the energy for me. But was it really?

Anger is exhausting. It’s heavy. It can be all consuming at times. And what does it do for you? Where does it get you? For the most part, I think it’s pointless to feel that way so often.

I understand that not every situation in life will work out as you hoped. People, places, and things can upset someone to the point of anger. But, it’s best to let it go.

There was a time, not too long ago, when I wouldn’t believe that I was saying these things. I’m not talking about the anger part, I’m talking about the letting it go part. I would like to think that I’ve grown up a little bit, maybe matured slightly. I know my audience here is very limited, so please don’t go around telling anyone that I’m looking at things from a mature perspective. I wouldn’t want my image to be ruined. Obviously, I’m kidding about that. I certainly don’t want to be thought of as the angry person that I was.

I’ve tried different techniques to calm myself recently. I’ve even attempted meditation, but I’m really not good at it. I am not (yet) capable of clearing my mind enough to get the best results from it.

But, as far as meditation goes, I know that a lot of breathing goes into that. And I posted an entry a little while ago about breathing. It’s such an incredible tool. Yes, it’s the literal foundation of our lives. If we don’t breathe, we don’t live. Controlling the breath is vital. Using it to calm down is essential. I’m proud of my efforts in this area.

I may have been obviously angry or depressed 20 years ago. I hope that now, I am seen as grateful. I really do have so much gratitude right now. I could easily focus on how little I’ve achieved by the standards of society. It could to appear to some that I’m very behind the curve. Still, lately I’ve really been focusing on how much I DO have. I’m grateful for the opportunities presented to me.

I’m grateful that I have the chance to right some wrongs. I’m grateful that I have the tools to make the necessary improvements in some areas of my life. I just need to apply myself more.

I’m grateful for the simple things that bring me joy.

I’m grateful that I get to start fresh on my diet and exercise plan tomorrow, since it’s a new month.

I’m grateful that anyone bothers to read this.

I’m grateful that I’m in a good place right. I hope to stay here for a while.