And if We Don’t Practice Gratitude?
 On the other hand, research shows that youth who are ungrateful are “less satisfied with their lives and are more apt to be aggressive and engage in risk-taking behaviors, such as early or frequent promiscuous activities, substance use, poor eating habits, physical inactivity, and poor academic performance.” Why does gratitude do all of this — how can it, really? Because we were made to live in gratitude to God, giving glory to God. “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those we know they are sinners” (Mark 2:17). I was reminded of my problem. Sure, I’m broken; we all are. But I lose sight of that sometimes in the glow of praise and achievements and an inflated sense of self. Then a flawed character comes along to remind me to let Him shine through the broken places of my life. And it's hard for I want to 'demand' respect and gratitude ~ and honestly, it ain't ever happenin'. Will that stubbornness ever be channeled correctly. Or even a simple honest-to-goodness apology? I don't think it will ... Uggh ~ huge sigh!! Again, I'm tired ~ I know where to go for rest, yet I don't. I'm overwhelmed ~ I know what to do to untangled the mess, yet I don't. I do what I don't wanna do and know what I need to do ~ yet I don't. To be GRATEFUL ...