Gratitude

gratitude

/ˈɡrætɪˌtjuːd/

noun 

1.

a feeling of thankfulness or appreciation, as for gifts or favours

Word Origin

C16: from Medieval Latin grātitūdō, from Latin grātus grateful

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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I was brought up to be a well mannered child, with my parents teaching me my "p's and Q's". I thought I was quite polite until one occasion a a few years ago when someone pointed out to me that often, in a familiar setting, my "please and thank you" weren't used as often as I would think. "Can you pass that?" I'd shout, showing no gratitude when the task was completed.

I was shocked, and since then have endeavoured to ensure that such a conversation is not required with me again.

However, over the past few years I've noticed how the demonstration of gratitude appears to be on the decline. The saying of a heartfelt thank you when someone does something for you is often replaced with "cheers" or "ta". 

Someone holds the door for you, and you walk straight through without saying a word.

Christmas and birthdays - where gifts can be exchanged with not so much as thanks. "Can you do me a favour"? - favour completed - and.......nothing! Ever experienced that? Ever done that?

Gratitude means "a feeling of thankfulness or appreciation"; but how often do you express that feeling? You may feel thankful, but was that appreciation shared with others involved in it's creation?

I'm particularly thankful for so much in my life - wife, kids, family, friends, health, career, colleagues, talents to name but a few and I hope that I show that daily! 

Do you owe someone a thank you? It may just be the thing that they need to hear today.