a thankful heart is a happy heart

gracias.

cám ơn.

grazie.

Ευχαριστώ. (“Efkharisto”)

xie xie.

 

These are the words for thanks that I know. I’ve been taught to say thank you in any language I’ve tried to learn. As far as I’m aware, there’s a way to express thanks in every language humans have.

So why don’t we say thanks more often?

I love the Spanish phrase for Thanksgiving – el día de acción de gracias – the day of the action of giving thanks. Giving thanks can be a thing you do, not just feel. Tell somebody you’re thankful for them. It might be the thing they needed to hear.

 

proof’s in the pudding – if you’re thankful, you’ll likely to be happier

Plus, there’s a benefit for you. You will probably be happy you said thanks.

I learned from Madame Blueberry in VeggieTales that “a thankful heart is a happy heart.” (Ok, I might’ve learned it other places, but their songs were so darned catchy as a kid, I still can’t get the ditties out of my head.)

In 2010, Time Magazine published an online article on “How Feelings of Gratitude Breed Happiness and Well-Being.” Erin Skarda, the author, said this:

Dr. Jeffrey J. Froh, assistant professor of psychology and lead researcher of the new study, surveyed 1,035 students ages 14 to 19 and found that grateful students reported higher grades, more life satisfaction, better social integration and less envy and depression than their peers who were less thankful and more materialistic. Additionally, feelings of gratitude had a more powerful impact on the students’ lives overall than materialism.

I think it’s held true for me so far. When I dwell on the kindness shown to me, unbelievable opportunities to be with those I love, the safety and everyday joys around me, it far overshadows any time of doubt, fear, want or fright that I’ve experienced. Focus on the good. Strive for that “attitude of gratitude” (just as I should strive to avoid cliches!).

 

you are loved

I wanted to let you know, in case you didn’t or didn’t believe it. God is good. He loves you for who you are and always has. Give thanks to Him. As Romans 8:28 says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Being called to His purpose? That’s all of us, whether you know it or not. Only for the good of those who love Him? That’s up to you.

And this Thanksgiving day, este día de acción de gracias, let your heart be happy. Thank those around you and focus on all the blessings you’ve been given.

And hey – I’m thankful you read this. Thank you for all of your encouragement as I go for my dream of writing.

 

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