A Thankful Heart

It's too bad that many people stop to give thanks only on the designated Thanksgiving Day—if even then, since many have reduced the occasion to "Turkey Day"! There is now a considerable amount of scientific evidence to support the idea that gratitude has a beneficial effect on our bodies and our minds. According to the research, we'd be happier and probably healthier if we were more grateful! Among the books written on the findings are:

The Psychology of Gratitude (Series in Affective Science), Robert A. Emmons and Michael E. McCullough, eds.

Thank You Power: Making the Science of Gratitude Work for You by Deborah Norville

Thanks! How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier by Robert Emmons
(Note: I am not familiar with all the writings of these authors, but am aware of their work; I'm neither recommending nor dismissing.)

There are many, many more books— specifically Christian books, journals, volumes of poetry, and inspirational books both "heavy" and light, self-help and popular psychology books, even cookbooks!

Of course, God knew all about the benefits of thankfulness before any of the researchers. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6, 7) "A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones." (Proverbs 15:30) Whoever said we have to wait for someone else to give us a cheerful look or good news? We are able to make our own!

"Thou hast given so much to me,
Give one thing more, - a grateful heart;
Not thankful when it pleaseth me,
As if Thy blessings had spare days,
But such a heart whose pulse may be Thy praise."
~George Herbert (1593-1633), a Welsh poet, member of
     parliament, and parish priest.

MaryMartha

Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®. NIV®. Copyright©1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.
Art from http://www.sxc.hu/