For so long many of us were taught that some of our character traits, thoughts, desires, and inclinations are “evil”. We were instructed to fight against them – or, at least, to hide them from others. No wonder it is difficult for so many people to accept themselves, and to be grateful for who they are. Their souls are like a “house divided against itself”.

Such is their philosophy of life: life is about a never-ending battle between “good” and “evil”. Perhaps we agreed with this notion, too. But why don’t we stop for a moment and think: did this attitude toward life make us happy? We might be surprised to notice that the opposite is true: our happiest moments were when we forgot about fighting within and without, relaxed, and allowed the flow of life to carry us forward.

When we were happy, we weren’t passive – yet our activity proceeded from the inner core of our being. It was not conditioned by outward conditions or rules of conduct imposed on us. We joyfully responded to inner urges. We allowed ourselves to be who we are, without fear or reservations.

All happy people live in such a way – whether consciously or instinctively. And no matter how unhappy we might feel at the present moment, we all can implement the same principles – and tap into the universal wellspring of happiness.

First of all, we need to reconcile with ourselves and to realize that every part of our being is valuable and has its purpose. There is no inherent evil within us. All so-called “evil” is but concealed good – or, rather, undeveloped and immature good. It is pointless to judge immature aspects. Let them grow and unfold their full potential! We do not condemn a child for not being as strong and as smart as an adult.

Be consciously grateful for who you are. Do not take yourself, or any of your qualities and possessions for granted. You will learn from your own experience that focused gratitude dissolves tensions and inner conflicts, brings peace and happiness.

Being grateful for who you are doesn’t mean that you should feel superior to others. It does not mean that you should become unaware about the mistakes you make, or areas where growth is needed. Yet when you look within yourself, dare to love yourself regardless seeming imperfections. They are not the limits of who you truly are and what you can be.

Be grateful for your mind – for your ability to think, to analyze, to invent new things, and to stay connected with God’s mind.

Be grateful for your emotions – for your ability to love, to forgive, to be happy, to enjoy the beauty of the world, and to be one with the loving heart of God.

Be thankful for your body – for your ability to live and move in the world, to interact with the universe in so many meaningful ways.

Be thankful for your past – it helped you to become who you are. God was present within you and your experiences even if you haven’t realized it. Be thankful for your present – for your ability to live into the eternal NOW. You are the master of your life – through your ability to decide, to make choices, to direct your attentions.

Finally, be thankful for your Divine nature. You are not mere “flesh-and-blood” – you are a spiritual being, the image and likeness of God. Recognize this great fact – and be thankful for it. Be thankful for your inner light which shines upon all your ways. Be thankful for the power of the Spirit which allows you to transcend all seeming limitations. Divine goodness resides within you. You are made of God, and you as you become more aware of this fact, you will gradually move toward the desired fulfillment.