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The Meaning Of Gratitude In Life

By Mark Thompson


When it comes to giving thanks, there are different methods based on whether a person is religious, spiritual, agnostic or atheist. In all cases, there are ways to give thanks. Whereas, when it comes to the meaning of gratitude, there are two basic principles which are associated with being grateful.

There are some basic aspects of gratitude which include that of appreciation and that of having been giving gifts freely without expectation. In most cases, gifts are tangible items though there are also intangible ones. Most often these are related to helping out with chores, spending time with, or taking care of sick loved ones.

While most religions see gratitude as giving thanks to God, the definition actually has nothing to do with giving thanks but rather being thankful for what one has received. In some cases, gratitude for the gift of life while not a prayer does show that an individual is appreciative of the gift of life. In fact, one writer Joanna Macy suggest that gratitude is a part of most organized religions, mystics and pagans and is a source of true art.

Scientists, monks and others all tend to agree that showing appreciation is a counterpart of being grateful. Whereas, one monk suggest that gratitude is a feeling or response an individual experiences when receiving a gift freely regardless of monetary value. In another case, a scientist suggest that it is an affirmation of the good aspects of life. In either case, people tend to agree that it is a feeling or response to having accepted something good.

A number of scientists agree that the source of goodness lies outside the self. While there are others whom suggest people are born with behavioral traits which can be either bad or good depending on brain issues and other factors. Regardless, most all people agree that when given a gift freely without expectation, recipients are often grateful.

Gratefulness, whatever the definition, is often considered a primary element when it comes to living a happy life. People who lack a sense of gratitude or gratefulness are often left desiring and wanting more on an ongoing basis. As a result, to avoid ongoing disappointments in life, it is important to always be grateful for gifts which are provided freely whether tangible or intangible, large or small.

Unless individuals can be content and grateful, there will always be a sense of emptiness which will reside within body, mind and spirit. Whereas, if having a strong sense of gratitude for all things large and small, the more likely the person will be happy and satisfied throughout life. While, those whom are always longing for something different, something else or something more, will most likely experience far more disappointment than happiness.

While some people give thanks for life, others only show appreciation when overcoming an illness or trauma. In most cases, these individuals are grateful to have survived such an ordeal. Whereas, there are others whom only live to complain about things one does not have rather than giving thanks that basic needs are being met.




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