Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others.” Cicero, ancient Roman philosopher
While the U.S. Thanksgiving celebration is a one-day affair, Facebookers have been spending the entire month sharing thanks in their posts. Nice to read the appreciations for things ranging from the mundane to the sacred.
Gratitude is a foundational spiritual principle. And nothing says “attitude of gratitude” better than a practice that reminds you to count your blessings on a regular basis.
I am grateful for…
Research confirms what anyone with a gratitude practice will tell you. “Gratituders” (I just made up that word. Do you like it?) are happier, less stressed folk.
Some people use a journal to list the things that they value. Others express their appreciation verbally or send letters of thanks.
My practice consists of writing a list of gratitudes and then emailing them to the eight women in my gratitude circle. One-woman emails almost daily. Others only send an occasional email.
For me, knowing that I’m going to write my list down means my brain goes looking for things to appreciate.
Recent gratitudes have included being grateful for:
- Being inside where it’s warm and toasty
- Water
- That my partner is taking my car in for service
- My appreciative clients
- Access to delicious healthy foods
While I send my list somewhere between 3-6 days a week I’m always on the lookout for things I could include on the list. I also get ideas from the women in my group (some of who I’ve never met.)
I find the practice particularly helpful on days where I feel down, stressed, or crabby. I especially make a point of composing and sending my list to shift my energy on those days.
Your gratitude practice? Do you have one? What is it?
If you want to start your own gratitude group simply ask your Facebook friends if they want to participate. Or ask here. It only takes two to get stated.
Thanks for reading and commenting. Just might make my gratitude list today. 😀