What’s the longest range goal you’ve ever set? Did you accomplish your goal? Most of us lose the battle for gratitude because we don’t have the right plan.   Long-term battle plans In England, they estimate it takes 250 to 300 years to build a cathedral. That’s a lot of planning and preparation.   At New College, Oxford beetles infested the oak beams in the dining hall. Trying to find replacement beams seemed impossible, except that the original architects planted oak trees with the express purpose of being used to replace the beams. When were those trees planted? Over 500 years prior to when they were needed.   I share these two stories to give you the perspective that your battles really aren’t that long and you would benefit from taking a much longer view of your life.   I shared on day 84 how I almost quit this Gratitude Challenge after only 80 days. 80 sounded like a big number until I read about the perseverance required to build a cathedral or win a military war.   Battle of Verdun   The battle of Verdun, in World War I, is the longest battle in recorded military history. Fought between France and Germany, over one million lives were lost in a battle that lasted 302 days. While the French ultimately recaptured their forts and villages, the battle was mired in deception, counterattacks, and heavy losses.    Can you imagine going to the frontline in that war? The likelihood of survival doesn’t sound very high, but personal survival wasn’t the goal—victory was.   Battle for our minds You’re fighting a much more significant battle when you fight for control of your mind. Toxic thoughts and negativity lead to defeat and make you susceptible to the attacks of the enemy. Full article: https://maninthepew.com/gc85