A Grateful Heart

In the lead-up to Thanksgiving in Canada this year (October 13), we asked CRCNA staff to tell us some of the ways they try to foster a grateful attitude. Here were some of their responses:

I thank God every time I remember what He has already done and what He has promised to do. Because He is faithful, I give thanks!
~ Janis Persenaire, Global Coffee Break (Resonate)
 

I think of the good in people. I think of the good of what happened or could happen. I'm grateful I'm alive and that my mom and dad are alive. You gotta think of the positive and what you like. You gotta think of the positive in people.
~ Isaiah, 11 years old (next door neighbour of contributor)

As a Lenten practice this year I kept a gratitude journal for the full 40 days, spilling over a bit until the pages of my small notebook were full. The challenge from the pastor was to record  gratefulness for something different every day. I really enjoyed thinking deeply about thankfulness in that time and I found the practice awakened my grateful sense. Noticing my teenagers cooperating: 'Oh, I'm grateful our children like each other.' Finding just what I needed at a thrift store: 'Oh I'm grateful to save money on this needed item.' I haven't returned to the journal since April or so but it helped flex my gratitude muscles and still see a difference in my attitude. :)
~ Alissa Vernon, The Banner

There's an app called "Gratitude Plus" that helps foster gratitude by encouraging you to post what you're thankful for every day. It's been a fun thing to do with a friend of mine in a "circle" so we can see each others' posts.
~ Anonymous staff member

One of my favourite ways to keep a grateful attitude is to share "wins". Every night before we go to sleep, my husband and I go over three "wins" of the day. It's a simple practice and reminder that even on the hardest days there are things to celebrate. It's a habit we developed years ago, and one that spills over into other areas of life.
~ Kristen Parker, Canadian Communications Coordinator

A line in the song, “This Is My Father’s World” says, “In rustling grass I hear Him pass; He speaks to me everywhere.” That struck me as a child and has stayed with me since. When I see something neat in creation, I delight in it and thank God for making it. I also try to thank God for what he provides throughout the day: meals, work, time with friends and family, rest, safety, shelter … 
~ Anita Brinkman, CRC Communications

What fosters gratitude in my life is reading and meditating on Scripture every day. No matter what's happening in my life, the promises of God through Jesus (His constant presence, love, help, guidance, forgiveness etc.) are a constant source of joy and gratefulness.
~ Susan LaClear, Candidacy

I try to make an effort to take time to observe and appreciate the small things in my life, from my garden to a beautiful sunrise or sunset, it helps to enjoy the positive moments in my surroundings.
~ Patty Morris, Resonate Global Mission

One of the ways I foster a grateful attitude is to name the small ordinary things that I am grateful for as I go about my day.
~ Anonymous staff member