Robert Louis Stevenson: 'Keep your eyes open to your mercies. The man who forgets to be thankful has fallen asleep in life.'

Keep your eyes open to your mercies. The man who forgets to be thankful has fallen asleep in life.

'The man who forgets to be thankful has fallen asleep in life.' These words by Robert Louis Stevenson carry a profound message about gratitude and its significance in our lives. In a straightforward sense, the quote urges us to keep our eyes open and be aware of the blessings and mercies that surround us. It reminds us to be thankful for the big and small things in life, lest we fall into a state of oblivion and miss out on the beauty and opportunities life has to offer.Gratitude is often seen as a simple act, a gesture of saying 'thank you' when someone does something kind for us. However, it goes beyond polite expressions and permeates into our daily mindset. When we approach life with a sense of gratitude, we cultivate a positive outlook that impacts our overall well-being.But what if we take this concept of gratitude a step further and explore it from a philosophical standpoint? What if we delve into the idea that gratitude not only affects our perception of life but also shapes the very fabric of our existence?In some philosophical schools of thought, there is a concept known as the Law of Attraction. This concept suggests that our thoughts and emotions have the power to attract corresponding experiences into our lives. In simpler terms, what we focus on, be it positive or negative, tends to manifest in our reality.If we apply this concept to gratitude, we can see its transformative power. When we actively practice gratitude, we shift our focus towards the positive aspects of our lives. This change in mindset can bring about a cascade of positive experiences, as we attract more things to be grateful for.On the other hand, the man who forgets to be thankful, as Stevenson puts it, falls asleep in life. This metaphorical slumber represents a state of unawareness, where one fails to see the blessings and opportunities right in front of them. By ignoring gratitude, we blind ourselves to the beauty and richness that life has to offer.In contrast, a person who embraces gratitude awakens to the wonders of existence. They become attuned to the little miracles that constantly surround us. It may be the warmth of sunlight on their skin, the laughter of loved ones, or even the fleeting moments of joy in their day-to-day routine. By recognizing and appreciating such mercies, they live a more awakened and fulfilling life.It is important to note that gratitude does not negate the challenges we face. Life is filled with ups and downs, and discomfort and hardships are inevitable. However, by practicing gratitude, we cultivate resilience and an ability to find silver linings even amidst the stormiest days.In conclusion, Robert Louis Stevenson's quote is a powerful reminder to keep our eyes open to our mercies. Gratitude is not a fleeting emotion but a way of life that shapes our perception and experiences. By embracing gratitude, we awaken from the slumber of unawareness and live a more meaningful and enriched existence. So, let us remember to cultivate gratitude in our everyday lives and stay awake to the wonders that surround us.