The practice of gratitude creates the kind of mind that is required for the practice of abiding pleasure. Therefore make every day thanksgiving day. (“Tending the Epicurean Garden”, Hiram Crespo).

The other day I took the opportunity of a long plane flight to write out a list of all the blessings in my life. It was quite an impressive list. Every time I feel a bit down (or I make the mistake of contemplating world politics!) I will get it out and cheer myself up.