Living A Grateful Life

As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.  - John F. Kennedy


I was recently asked, "How does it feel to be receiving such positive feedback on Grateful Brand?"

I had to admit that it felt wonderful. People from across three continents have written me, sharing their stories and appreciation for what I was doing. The warmth was unexpected yet very much appreciated.

But I paused and remembered this quote from JFK. In truth, I love the emails and well wishes but the most flattering and meaningful show of appreciation that anyone could ever give to me would be to simply live a grateful life. As I mentioned in my first post to this blog on December 14, 2011, the inspiration for Grateful Brand came from a woman who metaphorically branded herself grateful. While, to this day, I still don't know her name nor where she might be to be able to thank her, I have chosen instead to live my appreciation for her and the inspiration she gave me.

Verbalized gratitude is a gesture that serves a moment in time with a call and response structure as with saying 'please' and 'thank you.' But imagine that response being an echo that continued to reverberate long after everyone has dispersed and there was no one's hand left to shake. This is what living a grateful life is.

What ever you are grateful for, do not limit your appreciation to saying 'thank you'. Live that thank you. Show instead of tell. Serve as an example by mustering kindness when the world seems to be frowning upon you. Extend your hand to help another while remembering the hands that have been extended to you. Share your time even in spite of limits.  

Your actions may go unacknowledged, but there is no greater expression of gratitude.