Table of Contents
- When we are in pain, it’s hard to express thanks
- Thankfulness can lead to healing
- Thankfulness brings a multitude of benefits.
- Make it a daily practice.
Thankfulness and gratitude are often associated with Thanksgiving, a time when people come together to express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. However, thankfulness should not be limited to just one day or one season. It is a mindset and a practice that can greatly enhance our well-being and overall quality of life.
Why do we do it, then? Can’t every day find us thanking God for our blessings? Do we think we are only blessed one day? Of course, we don’t, but we often act like it. It’s like we need a designated day. But do we? We need to begin our day with a heartfelt gratitude that we even have that day to live. “This is the day the Lord has made. Let’s be glad and rejoice in it.”
When we are in pain, it’s hard to express thanks
My example
I must admit these last few weeks I haven’t always been the best at this, either. As I’ve mentioned, I have foot surgery scheduled at the end of December. It’s extensive and I’m not looking forward to it. But in some ways, I am. I’m getting to the point where I can’t take my two mile walk everyday. And most nights, I struggle with lots of pain.
But I do what we all do. I tell God I am thankful that, at least, I can walk. I do my best to keep it all in perspective when I think of those who’ve lived their lives in a wheelchair, or those who’ve lost the use of their legs for whatever reason. And I mean it. I truly am grateful. But I’m human and there are days I do say, “Why, me?” Those are the days I make it a point to offer up as many grateful thoughts as I can. I pour over Scriptures so I can find the right words.
Thankfulness can lead to healing
Expressing gratitude and offering thanks may not be easy when one is in pain, whether that pain is physical, emotional, or mental. In such challenging times, it becomes even more crucial to prioritize gratitude. When we are in pain, it’s natural to be consumed by our suffering, and requires immense resolve to choose gratitude. But it’s precisely during these times, that gratitude can actually help to heal.
Gratitude releases endorphins.
Anytime we think good thoughts it changes our brain chemistry. We know that’s true because depression changes our brain chemistry as well. How we think makes a big difference in how we feel, emotionally, mentally, and physically.
It doesn’t mean we deny or invalidate our pain, but looking around us and finding things to thankful for, brings us hope and that facilitates healing.
Thankfulness helps us transcend our pain.
Thankfulness brings a multitude of benefits.
Shifts our focus
Expressing gratitude on a regular basis has a multitude of benefits. It shifts our focus from what is lacking in our lives to what we already have. It cultivates a sense of contentment and appreciation, which can lead to increased happiness and fulfillment. Thankfulness also has the power to improve our physical and mental health, strengthen relationships, and create a positive ripple effect in our communities.
Thankfulness trains our mind
By practicing thankfulness daily, we train our minds to recognize the small joys and blessings that surround us. Whether it’s a beautiful sunrise, a kind gesture from a stranger, or a delicious meal, there is always something to be grateful for. When we consciously acknowledge and appreciate these moments, we are inviting more positivity into our lives.
Thankfulness is a coping tool.
In addition to its individual benefits, thankfulness also plays a crucial role in our relationships. Expressing gratitude towards others strengthens the bonds we share with them. It fosters a sense of connection, appreciation, and empathy. When we Taking the time to acknowledge and thank the people in our lives makes a positive. impact. They feel valued. We also create a positive and supportive environment for ourselves and those around us.
As we develop a habit of thankfulness, we become more aware of the impact our actions have on others. We start to recognize the value of kindness, compassion, and generosity. Thankfulness can inspire us to pay it forward and spread kindness to others. It can create a a cycle of positivity and gratitude that extends far beyond ourselves.
Make it a daily practice.
So how can we make thankfulness a daily practice, rather than just a once-a-year tradition? Here are a few practical tips:
Keep a gratitude journal
Take a few minutes each day to write down three things you are grateful for. Reflect on the positive experiences, people, or things that brought you joy and write them down. This simple practice can help shift your mindset and focus on the positive aspects of your life.
Express gratitude to others
Take the time to thank the people in your life who have made a difference. Write a note, send a message, or simply tell them in person how grateful you are for their presence or their actions. This small act can have a profound impact on both you and the recipient.
Practice mindfulness
Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine by taking moments to pause and appreciate the present moment. Whether it’s savoring a cup of tea, enjoying a walk in nature, or taking a few deep breaths, these mindful moments can help cultivate a sense of gratitude and presence.
4. Create a gratitude jar: Find a jar or container and some small pieces of paper. Each day, write down something you are grateful for and place it in the jar. Over time, you will have a tangible reminder of all the things you appreciate in your life. I have one in the kitchen. I don’t write in it every day. You will find what works for you.
Remember, thankfulness is not just for Thanksgiving. It is a mindset and a practice that can bring joy, fulfillment, and connection to our everyday lives. By cultivating an attitude of gratitude, we can experience the transformative power of thankfulness throughout the year.
We practice thankfulness by making it a priority. We choose to be grateful. And we choose not to be grateful. What choice will you make? What choice will I make?
Start with this Thanksgiving and let it be the beginning of daily gratitude.
God bless and have a great Thanksgiving.
PS. I will probably be AWOL next week unless I manage to squeeze in a few minutes.
