Giving Thanks? Why Bother? Stephen Frueh, PhD

Giving Thanks? Why bother?

It’s fairly easy to mouth the ‘I give thanks for’ words. But words are, in this instance, our least powerful tool in entering a time of deep gratitude for abundance beyond measure. Here are 5 ways to be thankful each of which has traction in the world we live in:

1) Thoughts into deeds. Years ago I lost, at birth, my first born son. Many friends came by with words of condolence. A few brought food for our family. But the biggest impact came from a friend who simply got me out of the house. He said, ‘come on, we’re going for a walk.’ He took me to a local nursery where he described, in delicious detail, many of the beautiful plants there. That walk comforted me in ways I still don’t understand.

2) Thoughts into prayer. Many people today are recognizing the powerful effect of prayer to touch another human being in their suffering. Pick someone you know who is going through challenging times and pick a daily time to pray for them.

3) Thoughts into money. Money comes from energy and energy comes from us. Give something of value – food, clothing, cash – to families who are living on the edge. Do it this week.

4) Thoughts into loving. Love someone this week that you are not naturally attracted to. Hugs help all of us. So do kind words. Focus on someone who doesn’t ‘deserve’ your love, and find a way to give them your love.

5) Thoughts into commitment.  You know that day/ evening/ hour/ lunch/ coffee/ – you’ve been meaning to have with your partner, child or parent. Commit to it now. Make a date. Do it.
Giving thanks in these ways will change your life.

“Gratitude for the very breath of life is a core component of physical, emotional and spiritual health.” Stephen Frueh