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