Gratitude as a discipline involves a conscious choice. I can choose to be grateful even when my emotions and feelings are still steeped in hurt and resentment. It is amazing how many occasions present themselves in which I can choose gratitude instead of a complaint. I can choose to grateful when I am criticized, even when my heart still responds in bitterness. I can choose to speak about goodness and beauty, even when my inner eye still looks for someone to accuse or something to call ugly.
Henri Nouwen
Mindfulbalance 
I think acceptance comes first then we work towards gratitude a deeper acceptance of life.
Reblogged this on The Courage To Be Happy and commented:
I was about to write something about Choice, how I am grateful that I have a choice. However, I stumble upon this post about gratitude involving a conscious choice, so I am reblogging this.