The quality of being thankful, readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness is the definition of gratitude. Gratitude is a way for people to appreciate what they have instead of always reaching for something new in the hopes it will make them happier. “Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul” – Henry Ward Beecher.
Do you know someone that might be alone or lonely? Maybe someone that could just use some time with a friend? Are you looking for ways to show your gratitude? Try expressing your gratitude in one of these simple ways.
- A random act of kindness
- Being thankful for your good health
- Include others in your plans
- Volunteer in your community
- Bring over a lunch to someone that lives alone
- Appreciate the person that cooks and cleans for you
- Call or text someone just to say hello
- Ask if there is anything you can do for someone
By expressing your gratitude to someone and making them feel better, you will also benefit from your own words and actions. It cost us nothing but yet gives countless benefits when we show our gratitude.
The importance of gratitude in life is best understood with this quote by the ancient Greek philosopher, Epicurus, “Do not spoil what you have by desiring what you have not; remember that what you now have was once among the things you only hoped for.”