The benefits of gratitude

From the Desk of Father David

Dear Friends in Christ,

             Sunday’s Gospel was about the Ten Lepers (Luke 17:11-19). We hear about one of them realizing the blessing he received and then taking time to thank Jesus.  Throughout the Scriptures Jesus gives thanks to God His Father.  St. Paul’s writings tell us to give thanks always.  In the introduction of the preface read at every Mass the priest says, “Let us give thanks to the Lord” and we respond “It is right and just.” At most Masses the priest continues, “It is truly right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give You thanks, Lord, Holy Father, almighty and eternal God.”

Research shows the benefits of gratitude are: increased happiness and positive mood, more satisfaction with life, better physical health, better sleep, less fatigue, greater resiliency, encourages the development of patience, humility, and wisdom, helps you relax, reduces feelings of envy, makes our memories happier, increases energy levels, keeps you away from the doctors, increases self-esteem, makes you more spiritual, opens the door to more relationships, improves psychological health, enhances empathy and reduces aggression, increases mental strength (it may play a major role in overcoming trauma).  I didn’t list all of the benefits.  Just imagine what a positive effect this would have on all the people you encounter.

The benefits were taken from three websites.  They are:
… https://positivepsychology.com/benefits-of-gratitude, and
… https://www.forbes.com/sites/amymorin/2014/11/23/7-scientifically-proven-benefits-of-gratitude-that-will-motivate-you-to-give-thanks-year-round/#4cfcd122183c, and
… https://www.happierhuman.com/benefits-of-gratitude/

Let us give thanks to God each day for all the wonderful ways He showers us with His blessings and for the ways He carried us through difficult times.  Think about someone you haven’t thanked lately and brighten their day by thanking them.  May we develop a thankful heart not only because it will make us healthier but because we will make the world a better place.

In hope,

Fr. David