The Importance of Gratitude

Opening Our Hearts To Receive Joy

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, we often become more mindful of what we’ve been fortunate to have received, or not received, over the course of the year. We reflect on the trials and tribulations we’ve overcome, as well as fond memories formed, accomplishments and achievements, all the while rejoicing in being here, in the present moment. 

I would think that 2021 has been better than 2020 for most of us and that is something to be thankful for this year. Although we celebrate Thanksgiving with food, laughter, hugs, and affection, Thanksgiving contains a much deeper meaning.

As I write this I’m listening to My Life by The Beatles. It may sound like a sad song but if you listen to it it’s a beautiful reflection of ‘people and things that went before’. Everything in life changes, people, places, and memories will not remain the same. As a result of these changes, we reflect on the past with a certain nostalgia making it necessary to cultivate thankfulness for what we have received, even if it’s a memory of loss or hardship.

Although we may be grateful for someone holding open a door, letting us cut in line when we only have a few items, we truly recognize thankfulness when we overcome a situation where we were faced with the possibility of something precious taken from us. 

Overcoming these trying times with the support of family and friends, or even by yourself, is a wonderful accomplishment and illustrates the importance of being thankful, the essence of Thanksgiving.

Here are a few considerations you may be grateful for:

• Waking up this morning. Many won't and being alive is a wonderful gift.
• Clean air. You don't need to live on a mountain top or forest to appreciate a deep inhale and exhale.
• Clean water. You don't need to go to a well or river to drink. Fresh, clean water is right in your tap.
• Your clothing. Clothing is designed to protect you from the elements. No matter what you have on it's doing it's job and many do not have clothing as well.
• Shelter. You don't need a fancy home or even an apartment to be grateful for shelter. Shelter is anything that protects you from the elements, including a tent.
• Food. If you ate last night, you were more fortunate than many others.  

As you cultivate gratitude for what you have now, you may also bring mindful awareness to where you may be tomorrow, next week, next month, and next year. When you have gratitude for what you have in the present moment you will ring this joy with you into all that you may have and experience in the future.

For it is when we are thankful that we are more open to compassion and forgiveness to ourselves and to others. So, as you begin to reflect this season, offer yourself compassion and forgiveness and reach out to those who may be hurting. Your caring voice may be the only one they hear and as a result maybe a bountiful cornucopia of blessings spring forward towards you both.

Wishing you all a joyful Thanksgiving,

Vladimir

Blue Lotus Meditation and Mindfulness Center is a registered 501(c)(3) religious organization.