“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.” — Dr. Seuss

This, of course, falls in line with expressing your gratitude and has been expressed in countless ways. “Don’t focus on what you lack, focus on what you have.” “Celebrate the best of your life.” “Look for the positive.”

I’ll admit that I’ve been known to be a skeptic about this, but I also see that it really does work to help people refocus. When it feels like the world is crashing down on you, saying, “at least i’m breathing,” or recognizing the praise you received at work or at school, or simply knowing that your friends love you and will listen provides a spark, a glimmer of hope. In other words, focusing on what you’re glad to have can help distract you from the thoughts that try to suggest that everything sucks.

On Twitter? Wondering what others are grateful for? Follow along with #grateful.