By Lori Leath Smith
“Gratitude is a quality similar to electricity: It must be produced and discharged and used up in order to exist at all.” — William Faulkner
They say people with a thankful heart see their glass as half full, while others see it as half empty. But, in my opinion, the truth is that gratitude isn’t about “what’s” in the glass—it’s about “how” you choose to see it.
A spirit of thankfulness doesn’t just make life sweeter; it actually transforms it—physically, mentally, emotionally and the “ly’s” In fact, studies show that gratitude can lead to better health, stronger relationships, higher productivity and greater peace of mind.
In the upcoming “Thanks” season, why not take a moment to reflect on what truly fills your heart—and how you can live out gratitude every day?
Being thankful means slowing down long enough to notice life’s blessings—big and small. Yes, most of us are grateful for our families, health and homes, but there’s also beauty in the seemingly little things (but are actually life-giving): a sunrise over the Gulf, a kind word from a stranger, a job that provides or the simple gift of another day. Just try it. I believe, that when you cultivate your thankful heart, the result will manifest in a host of positive benefits, such as better health, higher productivity, healthier relationships, more satisfaction with life, relief from stress and defense against depression.
You see, gratitude grows when we’re intentional about it. Try this: Keep a short list or “thankfulness journal.” When frustrations creep in, balance each complaint with something good. You’ll be amazed how quickly your perspective shifts from what’s missing to what’s meaningful. I’m not pure with this, but when I’ve taken the time to do, it’s miraculous and goes a long way for my state of mind!
Being thankful is more than a thought—it’s something we do. Over the years, I’ve learned a few simple ways to put gratitude into motion:
Speak it. Don’t keep your appreciation to yourself. Say it out loud! Go beyond a quick “thank you” and be specific—tell someone exactly what they did that made a difference.
Show it. Write a note, leave a kind review, treat a friend to coffee or surprise a service worker with a small token of appreciation. (Perhaps even write a short note of thanks after a job interview. It’s not a guarantee you’ll get the job, but this thoughtful, timely gesture is a genuine touch that will leave a lasting impression.) Little acts of kindness go a long way.
Serve it. Gratitude grows when we give it away. Volunteer, donate or simply lend a helping hand to someone in need. You’ll find that serving others multiplies your own joy—and from a business perspective, it also builds trust and goodwill within your community.
As we gather around the table, I urge you to remember the first Thanksgiving. The Pilgrims had every reason to despair—but instead, they chose to give thanks for life, provision and hope. It set the stage to move forward. Their gratitude became the foundation of a nation, and it can become the foundation of our lives, too.
This Thanksgiving, I challenge you, in addition to a day off filled with turkey and football, to take a cue from the Pilgrims—despite tremendous loss and hardship, they chose to give thanks for their blessings: life, new beginnings, a bountiful harvest, friendship, family and a faithful God.
What if we did the same? What if we focused less on what’s missing and more on what’s already been given? It’s not always easy and sometimes you just don’t feel like doing it…I know; I’ve been there. But, at this stage of life, I can look back and see how God’s hand was faithfully guiding and getting me through. For that, I am truly grateful.
In thinking about how our nation was built on gratitude, our lives can and will hold that same promise when they’re grounded in a thankful heart. This season, I challenge you to intentionally live and breathe with eyes wide open to the goodness around you—and let gratitude flow through your home, community, family and friends.
This Thanksgiving, whether your glass feels half full or half empty, remember — gratitude is what fills it. The more you notice and appreciate the blessings around you, the more your cup overflows.
“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.”
— Psalm 107:1
