Gratitude is an inherent quality in each of us and a choice. Every language and culture has a way to say "thank you," and every wisdom tradition includes gratitude as a practice. The Latin root of the word gratitude is grata or gratia—a given gift—and from this same root we get our word grace, which means a gift freely given that is unearned.
Gratitude is essentially the recognition of the unearned increments of value in one’s experience.
--Angeles Arrien
Brother David Steindl-Rast, a Benedictine monk, reminds us that “gratefulness is the inner gesture of giving meaning to our life by receiving life as gift.”
I love this definition as it emphasizes our participation in the heart-habit of choosing a more meaningful life--again and again--a life wherein we choose to include more experiences, broadening our spectrum of participation.
There are many ways to practice gratitude--demonstrating it to another is but one way.
Occasionally we are so moved we desire to show that we are grateful. If that is your particular inclination, please consider a gift to one of the organizations below.
They are set up to receive gifts of gratitude. They have been of particular interest and help to me personally and professionally. I don't hesitate to utilize them or refer people to them; their missions and my values align.
Friends of Zen--Hollow Bones
She Rock She Rock
Gratitude is essentially the recognition of the unearned increments of value in one’s experience.
--Angeles Arrien
Brother David Steindl-Rast, a Benedictine monk, reminds us that “gratefulness is the inner gesture of giving meaning to our life by receiving life as gift.”
I love this definition as it emphasizes our participation in the heart-habit of choosing a more meaningful life--again and again--a life wherein we choose to include more experiences, broadening our spectrum of participation.
There are many ways to practice gratitude--demonstrating it to another is but one way.
Occasionally we are so moved we desire to show that we are grateful. If that is your particular inclination, please consider a gift to one of the organizations below.
They are set up to receive gifts of gratitude. They have been of particular interest and help to me personally and professionally. I don't hesitate to utilize them or refer people to them; their missions and my values align.
Friends of Zen--Hollow Bones
She Rock She Rock