Gratitude is how we acknowledge our humble place in the universe, our place in the big dance.*
gapingvoid

Stoic joy – the joy that comes from purpose, excellence, and duty. it’s a serious thing …**
Ryan Holiday

I am grateful to be here, the odds were
stacked against me (and I would have no idea had they won,
But they didn’t); even so ingratitude comes too easily –
I don’t want to be a moaning ninny – so
I work on my thankfulness, I admit my knowledge of
what I can see and hear and touch and smell and taste,
All that is other, all that is more than my casual glance might afford,
I see how I can increase my gratefulness through
purpose and mastery and responsibility, how
I may not only dwell thankfully now, but in my
past and future, too.

Gratitude works.  Gratitude scales.  Gratitude creates a positive cycle of more gratitude.  When in doubt, default to gratitude.^

*gapingvoid’s blog: Count Your Blessings;
**Ryan Holiday’s The Daily Stoic;
^Seth Godin’s blog: If every day were Thanksgiving.