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Gratitude Amid Trials: A Beacon of Hope and Faith

Sometimes, life seems like an endless cycle of trials and tribulations. When we’re caught in the midst of adversity, the idea of cultivating gratitude might feel like a tall order. 

However, as challenging as it might be, expressing thankfulness in all circumstances is not just a noble gesture but also a transformative tool that can change our lives for the better.

Gratitude, in its simplest form, is acknowledging the good in our lives. But it’s more than just enumerating our blessings. It requires us to change our perspective, look beyond our current circumstances, and see the silver linings even in the darkest clouds. 

This shift in perspective enables us to experience peace and joy even amid trials.

Gratitude is not just an emotion; it’s an act of faith. It calls for us to trust in the unseen, to believe in the promise of better days, and to hold on to hope even when our situation seems hopeless. 

Gratitude is a testament to our belief that all things work together for our good, no matter how seemingly insignificant.

The Healing Power of Gratitude

Gratitude has a profound healing effect. It soothes our souls lifts our spirits, and broadens our perspective. It allows us to look beyond our pain and see the blessings within our trials. 

It helps us understand that our trials are not punishments but rather opportunities for growth and self-realization.

In uncertain times, gratitude becomes a beacon of hope. 

Focusing on what we are thankful for can provide solace and strength when our future seems unclear and our path fraught with obstacles. Even when we can’t change our circumstances, we can change our reaction to them. 

By choosing to be grateful, we see life not as a series of problems but as a journey of learning and growth.

Transformative Power of Gratitude

Gratitude holds a transformative power. It can turn trials into blessings, sorrow into joy, and despair into hope. It can change our hearts, our minds, and our lives. 

It’s not about ignoring our problems or pretending that everything is perfect. It’s about finding beauty and goodness amidst the chaos and difficulty.

Gratitude is a catalyst for change.

It sparks a shift in our mindset, helping us to see the world and ourselves in a new light. It encourages us to focus on possibilities instead of limitations, on strengths instead of weaknesses, and on solutions instead of problems.

Gratitude inspires us to become the best version of ourselves, to aim higher, and to strive harder.

In times of grief, gratitude can be a source of comfort and healing. It reminds us of the love, joy, and beauty we’ve experienced, even when we’re currently enveloped in sorrow.

It provides a sense of perspective, helping us to remember that even in our darkest moments, there is still light to be found.

The Role of Faith in Cultivating Gratitude

Faith plays a crucial role in cultivating gratitude. Faith reassures us that we are not alone in our struggles and that there is a higher power guiding and supporting us.

It encourages us to trust in the process, believe in life’s goodness, and hold on to hope even when it seems elusive. Gratitude and faith are intertwined, each one strengthening the other.

Life is full of trials and tribulations, but it is also filled with blessings and miracles. 

Gratitude helps us to see and appreciate these blessings, even amid trials. It encourages 

us to shift our perspective, to focus on the positive, and to trust in the promise of better days. Whether we’re facing a minor setback or a major calamity, gratitude can guide us through. It can heal our hearts, lift our spirits, and transform our lives. 

Let’s embrace a spirit of gratitude, not only in times of abundance and ease, but also — and perhaps most importantly — in times of trials and adversity. 

Because it is in these moments, when we are most challenged, that we have the greatest opportunity to grow, to learn, and to become the best version of ourselves.

Written by Sarah Edwards, Project Associate of TPCT.  Want to get to know me? Say hi! https://liinks.co/setapartcompany

Disclaimer: Sarah Edwards is not a certified or licensed mental health professional—instead, someone sharing real-life experiences and findings for others to find commonality and seek actionable steps.

2019 Annual Run in the Pub Fundraiser to benefit TurningPointCT.org!

Hi guys! I have something exciting to share with you guys!
On July 20th (a week from Saturday!!) from 11-4 there will be a fundraiser at O’Neill’s Irish Pub and Restaurant in Norwalk, CT. That fundraiser will benefit us!

Jimmy Booth (a very active and caring Norwalk local) has held this fundraiser for 8 years. This year he will support TurningPointCT.org!! Amazing, right?!
We are so excited.

Jimmy will be at the pub with some supporters running a marathon on a treadmill. This is all to raise awareness for young people’s mental health! There’s also going to be a raffle and 15% of the proceeds from all food and drinks bought that day will go towards our fundraising!!
That means if you are near Norwalk and want to support us, there are many ways to do it (even it just means buying some food).
I hope some of you can come and help us spread the word!!

Check out the event on eventbrite or facebook!

New Story: Marco’s story

We have a new story on our stories page!

“I became aware of my possible depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder in high school…Once I allowed myself to be vulnerable with the universe, and more specifically my therapist, I noticed gradual changes in my psyche…”

Click this link to read more of Marco’s story

Norwalk SMART Teen Group!

We have launched a SMART Recovery Teen Group in Norwalk, CT!

Run by Blogger Eliza, find ways to live a balanced lifestyle with teens your age, all over pizza!

Every Thursday from 5:30-7 at Norwalk Public Library 1 Belden Ave, Norwalk.

Join the convo & read more about it here

Not in the Norwalk, CT area? Find a group near you

Recovery: From All Wrapped Up Christmas Show by Step’n Out Dance Studio

Step’n Out Dance Studios, owned by Susan Tomaselli in Norwalk, CT hosted a Christmas Show called All Wrapped Up. The second act included a dance called “Recovery”, choreographed by Shelby Greger. Recovery dancers are from Step’n Out’s Girls Advanced Hip Hop 2 class, and include: Olivia D’Elia, Julia Lihv, Nahjeera Miller, Kate Riordan, and Marissa Roc. Watch this incredibly moving dance, which was opened by the announcer saying, “To all those who are suffering, you are not alone”. To those of us who fight every day to be O.K., this is for you! Enjoy, and happy holidays from TurningPointCT.org

Best things to do on Winter Break?

Hey guys!
New Years is almost here! Isn’t that crazy?! It’s almost 2019!
That means winter break is coming!! Maybe it’s even started for you already!

So, what’s your favorite thing to do on winter break? What are you looking forward to?

I won’t be back in school until the end of January, so I’m looking forward to SLEEP!! I’m also looking forward to taking some time off with Willow, and doing a few nerdy holiday things before Christmas. Hopefully we get one nice snow day, too!

How about you guys?

WINTER BREAK

Free film screening April 25th

Please join us on April 25th in Wethersfield at 10am for a film screening of “Healing Voices”, a documentary on mental health featuring stories of recovery from people of all walks of life.

To register and get more info, click the link below!

http://www.abhct.com/Forms/Form.asp?FormID=132

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You all knew this was coming…

Have you all heard of FEUD, the remake mini series on the epic celebrity battles between legendary actresses Bette Davis and Joan Crawford?

Those of you who know me understand my obsession with all things old Hollywood. The days of red carpets, real talent, and supreme DIVAS! 🙂 🙂 🙂

For those who haven’t seen the trailer, check it our here:

And be sure to check out some of the real Bette and Joan here:

So… This has been my vote for “BEST” this week. If you are “new” to the “old” Hollywood, and want some film ideas, message me and lets chat!

Suicide Prevention Mental Health FIlms! "Breaking Taboo"

We are a non profit working hard on our film series “Breaking Taboo” to break the taboo against Mental Health & Suicide Prevention. We are trying to reach as many people and get as much support as possible in our mission to Save as many lives as possible! Please like* our facebook: www.facebook.com/BreakingTaboo and support us if you can: www.breakingtaboofilm.com and indiegogo campaign: https://life.indiegogo.com/fundraisers/breaking-taboo/x/12237851

Thank you!!!