The Meaning Of Gratitude In Life And Death

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 basically two aspects when it comes to gratitude, one is related to appreciation and the other is related to accepting tangible and intangible gifts which are provided freely. As such, when giving a gift of appreciation, one is giving a gift of gratitude. Whereas, if accepting such a gift, the recipient is often grateful and appreciative.

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.

Scientists tend to agree that the source of goodness resides outside of self. While there are others whom believe people are born with inherit good and bad behavior. In most cases, these judgments are based on issues such as chemical imbalances in the brain or birth defects. Whereas, most all agree that any gifts which are provided freely are the most beneficial in the future.

Whatever the definition, gratefulness is often considered a key element to happiness in life. For, people whom are not grateful often always have wants and desires which when not acquired can build an ongoing sense of disappointment. As such, it is important to be appreciative and grateful even for the smallest things in life.

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.

Life is one gift most people can say is one given freely. While this is the case, there are some individuals whom are more grateful for life than others. Whereas, there are also others whom give thanks and are grateful for life each and every day. In either case, regardless of how the human race was created, the planet on which we live is one for which all need to be grateful.




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