Gratitude: An attitude? Or maybe it’s a trait?
A momentary feeling? Or could it be innate
To human beings globally, because we celebrate
Across the world’s traditions, that thankfulness is great?
Gratitude is noticing, and feeling thankful for
Acts and gifts and service, stuff we have that we adore.
And if we notice and give thanks for things we might ignore,
Our gratitude increases, and in this case more is more—
Scientific studies show that happiness and peace
Can come from feeling thankful, and that these thoughts increase
Connectedness to others, empathy, and life’s own lease—
Grateful people just might get a few more years apiece.
Though Thanksgiving gives gratitude a dedicated day
Here in the States, it might be good to seek out other ways
To get a daily dose of it. To look in work and play
Finding gorgeous tiny moments that inspire us to say,
Thank you Sun for warmth and food, and every morning’s greeting,
Thank you Earth for rain and dirt and life, however fleeting.
Thanks for laughter, thanks for friends, that moment of our meeting—
Thanks for work and holidays, and to you, Reader, for reading!
I’m grateful for the AISD SEL Team and for the blog they develop and share!
You have a gift for communication! This post is awesome! Thank you!
Gratitude is my attitude, I cultivate each day. It keeps me feeling wonderful and never second rate. And a grateful heart has no room… for anything but love.