Choose To Be Grateful

Choosing to be Grateful 

The New York Times article brings up the topic of gratitude and giving thanks. Around this time of year, with Thanksgiving and Christmas and New Years soon to follow, people become more aware of the blessings that surround them. They become more grateful for family, friends, and food on their table. However, the article also talked about how it is hard to be grateful sometimes in a world full of deprivation and depression. With the recent tragedies that have effected our world, it is only cause to reflect more on what we are thankful for. The article's main point is that even if you are nit grateful, even if you think you can find nothing to be grateful for, if you act the part you will eventually grow grateful. Simply by choosing to be more grateful, we will raise our happiness. 

My favorite was towards the end of the article when the author quotes Epictetus with "He is a man of sense who does not grieve for what he has not, but rejoices in what he has." It is true that in order to live a more fulfilling life it is important to appreciate the beauty around you and all the good within your life rather than focusing on what goes wrong or what you do not possess.  It is also important to appreciate the little things as Brooks says, on top of the usual family, friends, food, and a job. It is simple things such as good coffee and laughing with friends that I am grateful for. Specifically around this time of year I am grateful for Christmas lights, Christmas cookies, and giving presents to family and friends. 

Professionally, the article is applicable to the classroom and having a job as a teacher. Often times there may be stress placed on a teacher, but it is important to be grateful for all that the students did achieve rather than pinpointing what was not accomplished or work that needs to get done. As a teacher it is important to simply be grateful that all the students stay healthy and safe. Also in relation to the article, a simple "thank you" to those who appear more tense can always be effective so they feel appreciated. It is important to tell students "thank you" and praise them when they do something correctly rather than focusing on what they do wrong.