Nov 7, 2010

Words of Gratitude

by Cecily Markland

"The deepest craving of human nature is the need to be appreciated." -William James, American Psychologist and Philosopher

When I first heard this quote, I immediately knew that it was true, at least it was for me, at that particular time in my life. Since then, I've recognized that it's every bit as true for everyone else who shares this planet with me. But, knowing the statement is true is only half the equation. The other half is in the application. What does it really mean to be appreciated--AND, if appreciation is so important, how do you let others know they are appreciated? At the funeral of one woman, she was described in this way: "She made everyone feel as if they were significant." Okay, that makes sense, but how do you go about doing that then? I truly think it comes down to gratitude. Think about it. Don't you feel most appreciated when someone takes the time to express their gratitude, to genuinely thank you for being them for being a part of their life? It's true, that these times--these simple acts of gratitude--can be the high points in our lives. But, rather than looking for ways to BE thanked, we, instead, can pass the same on to others--we can show thankfulness to others and, in the process, derive even more than we will be holding out for a "thank you" from others. "Living in thanksgiving daily is a habit that will enrich our lives and the lives of those we love." (see Alma 34:38) Saying 'thank you' when someone buys you something or holds open a door is polite and expected, but saying "thank you for loving me and always being there when I needed you" is a deeper gratitude that satisfies others' need for appreciation and significance. So, say "thank you" to the ones you love today and let them know that they are appreciated by you. Even more importantly, say "thank you" to Heavenly Father FOR those you love. After all: "He who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious." (D&C 78:19)
I think I'll start now...and I'm thankful TO each of you for your friendship, your willingness to share your kindnesses, your knowledge, your support and your believe in me and others! I'm also thankful FOR each of you...my writing counterparts, my sisters, and friends!

9 comments:

  1. You are welcomed. And the significance of this is perhaps bigger than we think since our prophet has told us to develop an attitude of gratitude.

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  2. Thanks for reminding me of this great principle. Remember the ten lepers? Which was more richly blessed?

    The great thing about my being grateful and expressing it, is the happy feeling it puts into my own heart. I cannot express praise or gratitude without feeling better inside.Thinking it is great, but giving it is so much greater. It's like the old saying, when you point a finger, three of your fingers point back at you. If that's always true, when one gives thanks, it triples return blessings.

    I'm reminded of Portia, in The Merchant of Venice. She spoke of mercy, but perhaps gratitude is a form of the same feeling. She said, "The quality of mercy is not strained. It droppeth as the gentle rain upon the place beneath. It is twice blessed. It blesseth him that gives and him that takes."

    Thanks again for making my day.

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  3. You nailed it exactly. The need for gratitude is so deeply embeded in our natures, that strangely we fail to see how important it is. I've also found that as I express gratitude to others, that I've found myself filled with even more love and willing to serve even more.

    Thank you for the reminder, and I am grateful for your post. :) Have a great day!

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  4. Excellent message for the season. I read this just after one of my dearest friends gave me a beautiful Tigerseye bracelet to celebrate my upcoming book, Tigerseye. I was in a hurry and feel like I didn't thank her enough for the thoughtful gift. More than that I should thank her for her every day love and support. Thanks for the reminder!

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  5. Cecily, Thanks for reminding us.I agree that gratitude is vitally important. AND, I'm grateful to have you for a friend.

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  6. The great thing about gratitude is how much it blesses us when we express it as well as those we express it to. Didn't President Monson say something like those who are grateful touch heaven? I need to look that one up--the conference issue came today!!!!!

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  7. This is definitely a remarkable group of women.

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  8. Love your post Cecily. Thank you for being you and setting such a beautiful example. And thank you for your friendship. hugs~

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  9. Great reminder of the importance of gratitude in our lives!

    The older I get, the more I am grateful for the small things, and notice the "tender mercies" surrounding me.

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