We wake up in every morning in an age of unprecedented comfort. We live in luxury that would have been the envy of kings. Clear water from mountain streams, reservoirs and wells flows through taps inside our homes. We enjoy heating, plumbing, energy, books from every age and corner of history, music in every imaginable style, entertainment and media access to the entire world. We can instantly communicate across vast distances, hardly having to leave our cozy cottage. And if we need to travel, there are few inaccessible places left.

Fresh produce and raw foods are as close as the nearest supermarket, and the goods are packaged to last in our pantries for a long shelf life. We enjoy freedom of thought, conscience and religion few in history were ever allowed. In many ways we really do have it good. So much of the modern convenience we take for granted did not exist a few generations ago.

While we're giving thanks, let's look at a few aspects of gratitude. Being thankful isn't a once-a-year holiday occasion. It is an attitude of thanks giving that will enhance every aspect of our lives.

The themes of gratitude, thanks, humility and meekness are repeated throughout scriptures. They are closely tied characteristics cultivated through a lifetime of caring. The more sincerely we live by the Savior's teachings, the more spontaneous and genuine will be all of our giving, including our thanks giving.

The scriptures teach, "In everything give thanks." Sometimes, when we feel expected to show gratitude, if our heart really isn't in it, our counting of blessings might be a shallow exercise.

Our lives and relationships will be blessed if we can instill gratitude into our character. Our thankfulness needs to sink to a deeper, more personal level. That's what happens when we recognize the grace of Christ and our indebtedness for His atonement.

Gratitude unburdens our spirit from negative emotions and gives room for charity in our hearts. It opens the windows of heaven to work miracles in our lives. It shines light in our caring for others.

You're familiar with the phrase, "More blessed to give than to receive." In reality, giving and gratefully receiving both come from the same spirit. Both are essential to loving relationships.

Our expressions of thanks should be specific. Vague wording and broad generalizations don't serve much useful purpose. Expressing gratitude for particular attributes and actions can motivate character growth in those areas. And on a personal level, gratitude instills in our own hearts proper feelings of respect for each other which makes enduring love possible.

Thank you for taking the time to let me share thoughts on love. I appreciate the comments you send. I'm grateful for the love you bring into your lives and thank you for your efforts to bless the lives of those with whom you associate.
 
 

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