“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
Sometimes everyone has a lapse in gratitude. Expressing it helps positive feelings grow and brings a sense of calmness and well-being. Expressing gratitude is also an effective way to positively influence attitudes and behavior of others.
Teaching gratitude to a child can be challenging, but it is vitally important. By developing attitudes of gratitude, children learn the beginnings of generosity, courtesy, and appreciation of family and others. Grateful children look outside their own world and see that others DO caring acts for them. The Gratitude Trees provided by SedonaKind in the children’s section of the library, West Sedona Elementary School, and Big Park Community School will continue to initiate conversations among teachers, parents and children about what it is to be grateful.
As for adults, we get so busy with our own lives and often fail to appreciate the abundance that we already possess. Expressing gratitude strengthens relationships, creates positive feelings, fosters happiness, and brings peace of mind. It benefits BOTH the giver and the recipient. SedonaKind’s Gratitude Trees at the Sedona Community Center, Oak Creek Country Club, and The Collective will attract adults in all walks of life to consider the role of gratitude. Make every season one of giving by showing appreciation for what you have and what others have done for you. Let others see you expressing gratitude and be the example for others to follow. The benefits are immediate, powerful, and lasting.
