A Note on Gratitude and its Wonderful Effects

I probably can’t get anymore cliché talking about gratitude during Thanksgiving. But it’s an important topic for a reason. In our fast paced culture, especially with the way we consume media now, it’s easy to forget that our anger, frustrations or whatever negative emotions we feel, are temporary and mere distractions for us to get by day-to-day. It’s not what defines us to be who we are, since they’re just emotional responses our minds dramatize to fill the narrative of our lives. Instead, what makes us human is our abilities to connect with those around us and co-create memories that last. And while that certainly isn’t easy (hence all the break-up songs and dramatic family holiday movies), it’s more valuable than anything to take the time and appreciate those that have an impact on us. Regardless of whether that impact is negative or positive, realize the influences they’ve had on our abilities to change and grow. And that just makes life a little more beautiful, because things are fluid-like-water and there are always surprises we never anticipated. Gratitude can help us realize those instances and make our present happier and more calming. And really, this isn’t just an exercise exclusive to Thanksgiving day, as it should be practiced everyday to achieve the mental state of health we desire.

I hope everyone has a heartwarming and grateful week,

-Matt Chu