November is a time to express gratitude for everyone and everything in our lives. In today’s fast-paced world, people often overlook the true meaning of thankfulness and the positive impact it can have on others.
The textbook definition of graditude is “the readiness to show appreciation for and return the kindness,” but I believe it means substantially more. Reminding someone that they matter can be incredibly powerful in our current society where appreciation is often scarce. It can create ripples of positive energy to spread throughout the community. This is the perfect time for people to embrace the opportunity to make the world a happier place.
Now, to truly show gratitude, two questions have to be answered first. The first one is, who deserves our gratitude? While it is true to say everyone deserves to be appreciated, it is unrealistic to express gratitude to every person in the world. Instead, I suggest narrowing down the focus to those who play significant roles in our everyday lives. Consider family members who have given unconditional love and support, friends who are always there and teachers who dedicate their time to service the community and educate the future.
However, that doesn’t discourage the idea of shooting for the stars. If it’s possible, express gratitude to the cashier at the store, the barista making coffee or even the stranger on the street!
The second question is, how can we express our gratitude? The answer is simple: in whatever way feels right. This is where a little bit of a personal touch comes in. For example, write a heartfelt letter to a teacher who has inspired you, expressing how their guidance has made a difference in your life. A simple yet sincere hug to a family member truly speaks volumes about your love for them. Or maybe surprise a friend with that hoodie they’ve been admiring for weeks to show them that you have been paying attention to their desires and interests. Even a straightforward expression such as, “I’m so thankful to have you in my life,” can leave a long-lasting impact on anyone. It all boils down to how you show your appreciation for the people that you love.
As we navigate through this season of thanks, I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on their blessings and actively practice gratitude.
When we recognize the abundance we have in our lives and share our thankfulness with others, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to a more appreciative and compassionate world.
So, let’s embrace this opportunity to be thankful!
