Gratitude is a Practice
When we recognize that every aspect of life is a gift, we can move beyond self-centered striving and live with an open heart. Gratitude, in its purest form, invites us to receive life without expectation, acknowledging that each moment, each breath, is an unearned blessing. In this posture, we allow the energies of love and life to flow freely, benefiting not only ourselves but the whole world around us.
Scripture teaches that gratitude is not just an attitude; it is a practice that invites peace beyond understanding. This peace is not born of our ability to grasp or control, but from choosing love over fear, and positivity over negativity. A life rooted in gratitude is not a passive one, but an active stance, ready to receive and to give.
A daily and chosen attitude of gratitude will keep our hands open to expect that life, allow that life, and receive that life at ever-deeper levels of satisfaction—but never to think we deserve it. Those who live with such open and humble hands receive life’s gifts, full measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over into their lap.
The truly great among us understand that they are instruments, drawing from a deeper source. Their lives are shaped by humility, and they know that their gifts are not their own to boast of, but to share. Gratitude is the starting point for all of it: the humility to receive, the wisdom to share, and the peace that comes from knowing we are part of something much larger.