I have found that the practice of daily gratitude is important ... The actual practice of writing is very therapeutic in itself.... but the act of writing out the things that you are actual grateful for.. makes us realize and understand that you really do have many things that God has already given you .. and your family to be really grateful for..  

I watch an Oprah show.. some years ago.. and she had a guest, Sarah Ban Breathnach.  She has written many books on gratitude.. and has gone through her experiences poor and plenty.. I've always tried to be thankful for all that I have.. but she is the one who really made it plain and simple to WRITE THESE THINGS OUT... it makes things vividly real.. and forces you and your mind to make the strong mental note .. to really be grateful.. 

Since that show .. I have lots of her publications .. and have made it a point to "pass it on".. and show my gratitude as much as possible ... I have purchased journals and have given them to people... to share my feelings on gratitude..  I encourage them to 

write ten things down EVERYDAY... to show them that being grateful.. will show you new things in their lives that God wants to show them no matter how difficult they may think things are going right now ...  trust me God has a plan.. keep the faith...

Aloha & A Hui Hou

Jeremiah 29:11