Gratitude is “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness”. Don’t you think most of us forget about all the things that we have? Instead, we keep complaining about what we don’t have.
As kids, we tend to overlook this precious quality and never follow it. But as we grow older, we begin to look out of our own world and observe the pain and suffering that many people face. We begin to give more rather than receive and thank God for all that we have. We are so privileged.
Many people even make it part of their mealtime to first thank God for everything they possess and begin to eat. You must have heard about the very famous tradition in the West called “Thanks Giving”. Everyone has something or the other that others lack. At least we have basic amenities like food, water, electricity, shelter and clothes (even of our own choice).
Trust me, if you have never donated anything, try doing so. It’ll make you feel better about life. It’ll make you happier. You can donate either those clothes that you hardly wear or have become small for you. At times, most of us feel guilty if we have too much or if we buy something new for ourselves. Don’t feel guilty, just be grateful that you got the opportunity to buy it, perhaps use it judiciously.
The feeling of gratitude is amazing and soulful. It makes your senses come alive. It helps your senses become more aware of the things that are around you. If you are from a rich family or even middle class, you are lucky.
Most of the time, we forget to thank our loved ones and friends for all the things they do for us through small little ways like buying gifts for us, paying for our expenses, spending time with us, making us feel better about life or cheering us up. Be mindful. You don’t always have to say “thank you”, but maybe say it in other ways like hugging them or showing them love.
To conclude, if you ever feel that you don’t have enough, remind yourself that there are people out there who don’t have what you have. Repeat these words, “I am so thankful for all the beautiful things that I possess and for all the luxuries of life”. Be grateful, be happy.