Practicing Gratitude in the Face of Adversity

Ep 063: The word gratitude is derived from the Latin word gratia, which means grace, graciousness, or gratefulness (depending on the context). Gratitude is a thankful appreciation for what an individual receives, whether tangible or intangible. With gratitude, people acknowledge the goodness in their lives. Gratitude is a way for people to appreciate what they have instead of always reaching for something new in the hopes it will make them happier or thinking they can't feel satisfied until every physical and material need is met. Gratitude helps people refocus on what they have instead of what they lack. And, although it may feel contrived at first, this mental state grows stronger with use and practice.

Our next guest practices gratitude every day. He is a husband, father and successful salesman who has worked in the financial services industry for nearly 20 years. The Cincinnati native is also living with kidney cancer. He was first diagnosed in 2015, but after one of his kidneys was removed, doctors told him he was cancer-free. Then, in late 2018, the cancer returned, and the biopsied tumor was malignant. Since then, he started a blog to track his journey and inspire others. His disease has taught him that how you respond to situations you face defines who you are. Please welcome Matt Moran to The Retirement Success in Maine Podcast!

Chapters:

Welcome, Matt Moran! [4:45]

Matt’s journey with cancer. [9:02]

What is the meaning of G-R-A-T-I-T-U-D-E to Matt? [18:13]

How does being more grateful improve our relationships? [27:32]

What are the Four Houses of Health? [33:45]

What are Matt’s thoughts on practicing gratitude in a comparative way? [44:28]

Why is making amends so important to the practice of gratitude? [48:49]

How will gratitude continue to shape Matt’s life and his retirement? [52:13]

Ben and Curtis conclude the episode. [58:49]