By Sharon Frank
OCTOBER is associated with Thanksgiving. A time to be grateful. A time to gather with family and friends often in the sharing of a Thanksgiving feast … think Turkey and all the trimmings. It is also a time to gather your thoughts together and offer a big “Thank You” to Creator. For without the gifts from Creator, we would not be, and there would be no life.
Each time that you say, “Thank You” and truly mean it, that is a prayer. Research from Harvard Medical School -2021 “Giving thanks can make you happier”, has shown that when a person takes a moment (daily - the best scenario) on a regular basis to count their blessings they are generally, happier, healthier, and more likeable. The Ministry of Gratitude is nothing new, in fact “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
St. Ignatius of Loyola developed a Spiritual Exercises, “the Daily Examen” in 1522 a prayer practice designed to help people grow in their personal relationship with God. An opportunity to reflect on our sins, in light of God’s infinite love and mercy and see God’s generous self-gift. Gratitude. As we contemplate all the ways that God is at work in our lives, we are moved to gratitude.
Even in time of difficulty there is always something, no matter how small or insignificant, for which to be grateful. This is a spiritual practice, looking at the glass as half full instead of half empty. Or perhaps even acknowledging that there is a glass. Talking to God about your challenges and still finding gratitude, just might arm you to cope with those challenges. Prayer is how you communicate with The Divine. Make sure you talk to God, but that you also take time to listen, to be, to have the Holy Spirit offer guidance. Prayer does not change God, but it just might change you and offer a wholeness that is needed.
As you lie down at night think of one or two things for which you are grateful, and it may simply change your life! It can help you refocus on what you have instead of what you lack. Initially, it may feel contrived but with use and practice the mental and spiritual wholeness and happiness follows.
There are many ways to cultivate gratitude. Try writing a thank you note or email to tell someone how important they are to you, don’t forget to send one to yourself. No time to write, well thank them privately and mentally in your head. Keep a gratitude journal and jot down your blessings, you can keep this secret or share with others showing how you appreciate them. Count your blessings on a regular and frequent basis and take note of the sensations this elicits. Meditate, by being mindful and focusing on the present without any judgement on the word “gratitude” or that for which you are grateful (friends, weather, sounds, etc). Pray from your heart or search the internet for Gratitude prayers, there are many to choose from, and remember “Thank You God, for my blessings” is a prayer!
Reminder of AFP’s upcoming Fall conference on October 5.
Sharon Frank is an AFP Lay Executive Member