How to Make Gratitude an Effortless Part of Your Life

One of the very first lessons a toddler learns is the importance of being thankful. Adults may find it difficult to recognise their own abilities. Others refer to it as "giving without expecting anything in return." I prefer the word "observing things as they are" to describe it. The art of appreciation is the act of giving without expecting anything in return. Simple acts of generosity do not require any expectation of reciprocity.

When the giver is a close family member or friend, it is simple to express gratitude. Giving someone your time or talent demonstrates your concern, even if it is only superficial. When you provide a present to someone who is in need, they will be impacted by your thoughtfulness and presence in their time of need. That is honest appreciation on my part.

When the honoree is really busy, it is possible that gratitude may be effortless. People who are overly busy frequently ignore the minor details. After spending the previous week travelling, I began to be concerned about returning home to a cold, wet house. I realised I needed to take a break and get some coffee. However, as soon as I sat down, I realised that I was stuck in traffic and that I was running behind schedule.

I began to ruminate "There has to be a better way to do things. It's completely ridiculous! I despise driving on interstates, and I should be in my house by now. There has to be a better way to do things." That's when the storey about receiving an unexpected special box at work that had a note from an old college acquaintance came back to me. She took a look at the note and saw it was written in her father's handwriting.

She expressed her appreciation for the gift and expressed her want to see him again. My mother was relieved that she could let her father to unwind and enjoy his company without interfering. "What do I do now that I don't have to?" you might wonder. As I looked at her face, I was perplexed. So I told others, and they agreed that the manner in which you present a gift is not necessarily important. It all comes down to delivery.

After that, while waiting in line at the grocery store, I noticed a young couple walking towards a large cardboard box. When I instructed them to do so, they promptly sat down and unwrapped the massive gift. They were greeted by a thoughtful basket brimming with delights.

After admiring one of the items, they decided to purchase something. I received it from the woman who picked it up and gave it to my father. "Thank you," he responded, his gaze fixed on the vase. My feelings of thankfulness and appreciation for my father erupted and flooded over him. He couldn't stop smiling all day and night since he could see my mother's delight when she presented him with the magnificent gift.

---