Gratitude: The Gift That Keeps On Giving

While life is wonderful in many ways, it can also be difficult and disappointing. Negative circumstances like divorce, illness, injury, and accidents occur frequently, yet we are called upon to be grateful.

“The pilgrims certainly experienced significant difficulty and loss during their voyage to a new world,” said Dr. Beth Plachetka, LCSW, EdD, and owner of Safe Harbor Counseling. “Once they were settled, they gave thanks to the natives, to each other, and to God, whom they felt protected their lives.”

According to Dr. Plachetka, the settlers’ gratitude in the past is a wonderful model for us in the present day. “When we express gratitude for unexpected or undeserved help and support, our mental and physical health improve,” she explained. “We become more resilient, flexible, empathetic, and creative. Gratitude increases our focus and attention, as well as our ability to postpone gratification and to exhibit sacrifice. We tend to work more collaboratively and develop healthy relationships.”

Physical health also improves with the expression of gratitude; as stress decreases, blood pressure and heart health improve. Muscles relax, and digestion and sleep improve as well.

“Being grateful during difficult times calls for intentional strategies,” said Dr. Plachetka. “Always say ‘thank you’ with a smile, and leave out any opinion for another’s improvement along with any expression of disappointment. Keep a daily journal of blessings that occurred during the day. When possible, offer others an expression of appreciation. If not possible, offer a prayer of blessing and decide how you’ll pass on the gift to that person.”

Dr. Plachetka recommends remaining curious about motivations and outcomes, and to offer grace to those who may be having an exceptionally challenging time. She advises offering prayers of gratitude daily for every event that offers new insight, for the gift of life, and for the opportunities that life offers. “Gratitude is the gift that keeps giving,” she added. “Be grateful in all circumstances.”

Beth Plachetka, LCSW, EdD

Safe Harbor Counseling

76 S. Main Street, Suite A

Sugar Grove, IL 60554

630-466-8657

safeharboril.com