“Counting your many blessings. Name them one by one.”

There are days where even when the sun is shining bright the day seems dull.

Everything seems to be grating to the nerves. Yelling is the normal. Tears are an hourly occurrence. It’s just enough to make it to nap time without snapping for the 10th or 20th time.

I can feel the dark clouds of depression and feeling like a failure set in.

In those times, I am reminded that I need to think on the positive.

For example, today I began sliding down the spiral of anger because I wasn’t being listened to. I could feel the tenseness enter my shoulders and blood pressure begin to surge out of control. I yelled for attention.

I sent the kids outside, I cleaned up, grabbing my journal I began writing.

I began compiling a list of all the victories we had had that morning. To my surprise, I wrote down 10 things that we had been victorious in since the start of the day.

As I begin to focus on the good, the tightness in my chest and shoulders dissipate. My vision becomes clearer.

There really is something to be said about setting your mind on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8) and having a joyful heart (Proverbs 17:22).

So the next time you feel that cloudy disposition settle on your heart, write down a list of 10 things that are victories or good things in your life.

Live naturally by living joyfully.