Thanksgiving Day: More Than Just Being Thankful – Don Hooser ucg.org

Thank you—two simple yet profound words that hold immense value in any language. The satisfaction of doing a good deed often lies in hearing those two words as a reward. Unfortunately, gratitude seems underused.

Gratitude is the foundation of virtue, inspiring positive attitudes. It’s challenging to maintain a bad attitude when feeling grateful. Ingratitude, on the other hand, is a prevalent sin, easier to criticize than compliment. Some seldom express thanks, a habit ideally developed by age 3.

Thankfulness tends to be passive, while Thanksgiving is active, enriching both giver and receiver. Expressing gratitude should be a habit, making everyone happier.

Being thankful should extend beyond self-pleasure to acknowledging others’ contributions. True thankfulness implies recognizing those who have paved the way for one’s blessings.

The Bible emphasizes action over passivity regarding thankfulness. While the word “thankful” is used sparingly, “thanksgiving” and expressions like “give thanks” abound.

Praise, akin to an extensive thank-you filled with admiration, fosters a positive environment. The Bible stresses giving the greatest praise and thanksgiving to God.

Thanksgiving Day celebrations often lack genuine gratitude, overshadowed by excess. The Bible encourages expressing thanks for blessings, attributing credit to the Creator.

Let’s strive for a daily attitude of gratitude, making every day a day of thanks.