| Finding Strength: The Hidden Value of Gratitude
In the classic novel Robinson Crusoe, author Daniel Defoe states through his main character’s words, “Gratitude was no inherent Virtue in the Nature of Man; nor did Men always square their Dealings by the Obligations they had receiv’d, so much as they did by the Advantages they expected.”
In this short passage, Robinson Crusoe voices the observation that when a good thing happens to man, he tends to gloss over what has been given to him and sometimes not even realize that something good has been given to him, but instead, turns his attention to the advantage he has now received as a result of what has been given. (this would apply to both man and woman).
Give a child what they asked for and you will have to teach them the words “please and thank you”. Give your teen what they requested and a quick “Thanks, Mom” comes out of their lips as they fly by to their next engagement or don’t even look up from what they are focused on.
Having gratitude requires us to stop, reflect and allow our mind to chew on what has been given to us. Protection. Provision. Friendship. Family. Just to name a few!
Unlike tragedy which comes upon us suddenly and grabs our attention, blessings tend to slowly appear like crocuses that pierce through the ground and open their blossoms to the cool spring air. We don’t even realize they are present unless we stop to look around.
However, when we do take the time to think about all that we have, a sense of strength and a groundedness develops. We gain hope because of what we realize we have. We gain new perspective, and a positive one!
Anytime you have hope, strength is the complimentary accompaniment!
As Defoe points out, gratitude is not inherent in us. It’s not our first response. We have to cultivate it.
If it’s been awhile since you have felt the presence of gratitude on your lips and mind, here are a few steps to take to reintroduce it into your day:
– Slow down the rush of your life and take time to reflect on the good things.
– Search hard for the silver linings in your circumstances, or step back to look beyond them.
– Don’t let the backwash of life cloud the good things. Keep the negative comments and disappointments mentally at bay so that the good can be seen.
– Thank those who have brought blessing into your life.
With a little attention to the things you have going for you in your life, you will feel renewed and invigorated to take on what lies in your future. With strength and gratitude.
Keep moving!
Priscilla |
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