Piglet noticed that even though he had a very small heart, it could hold a rather

large amount of gratitude. 

A.A. Milne

            Gratitude is from the Latin word grata, or gratis, which means something given or a free, unearned gift that is received. Gifts of gratitude come in unexpected ways and times, such as in moments we feel peace or deep satisfaction. Gifts of gratitude also show up as blessings in our lives that we become more aware of—good health, our five senses, calls from friends we haven’t seen or heard from in years. What moments of gratitude, or grace, have you experienced recently?

            Gratitude goes beyond age, vocation, creed, or gender. It is a universal experience that goes beyond religions and cultures. Gratitude cultivates our character, humility, compassion, wisdom, joy, and integrity. We can notice what we are grateful for by simply asking at the beginning or end of a day -- What three things am I grateful for now? This question provides a simple reminder of what IS working in our lives, since we too often become addicted to noticing what is NOT working. Gratitude can be a self-care practice during good and difficult seasons of life, and helps keep our hearts open.

            Poet Edwin Robinson writes about two kinds of gratitude, one we feel for what we have received, and the other for what we feel when we have given something to another person or to a group of people without expecting anything in return. Touching the life of another can be as simple as a phone call, a smile, a brief hello, or simply asking, How are you today?

            In Living in Gratitude: A Journey That Will Change Your Life, cultural anthropologist Angeles Arrien describes four benefits of practicing gratitude.

Health benefits include reduced stress and anxiety, enhanced well-being and happiness, a strengthened immune system, improved sleep, more positive emotions, and a more rhythmic heartbeat.

Leadership benefits include increased productivity, enhanced creativity, increased cooperation and collaboration, and appreciation for gifts and talents.

Relationship benefits include building trust, fostering mutuality, increasing generosity, and keeping the heart open.

Spiritual and character development includes developing the character of each human being, enhancing a sense of life meaning and purpose; increasing awareness of gratefulness, blessings, and protections.

            How can we begin to practice and receive the benefits of gratitude? Ask the following questions and keep a journal with your responses: Who or what inspired me today? Where did I experience a sense of peace, balance, and comfort today? What made me happy today? May you experience moments of gratitude and smiles that you share with others!