Reflecting on Gratitude in Today’s World

Being thankful is not always easy, especially in our present world. Many of us tend to associate gratitude and thankfulness with the things we possess or lack. It’s natural to compare ourselves to others, especially when the media often highlights those who have great wealth, while rarely showing those who are struggling to get by. I am reminded of this reality through my local church, Patria Church in Rancho Cucamonga, which recently provided Thanksgiving dinners to what seemed like thousands of people—there was a long line of individuals and families in need.

Experiencing Kindness and Community

As a patron of Patria Church, I listened to Pastor Diego and Adam speak about their outreach efforts to support those in need. I found myself thinking that others were more deserving of this meal than I was. However, God had different plans.

My next-door neighbor, who also received a Thanksgiving dinner, kindly picked up one for my family as well. I am truly thankful and grateful for their kindness and for the fact that God inspired them to think of us.

Scriptural Perspective on Thankfulness

I am reminded of scripture, specifically

1 Thessalonians 5:18: “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” and

Ephesians 5:20: “Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

These are passages I am familiar with and have held closely throughout my life, especially during times of struggle—whether financial or related to mental health.

Personal Challenges and Helping Others

Those who read my posts know I often discuss my mental health challenges, including suicide ideation and anxiety, and sometimes thoughts of dying. I am aware that there are people who are far worse off than me, and the Lord reminds me of this frequently.

Just today, while exchanging something at my local Kohl’s, I was approached by a woman in the parking lot asking for help for herself and her children—anything to eat. Throughout my adult life, strangers who seem to be struggling have often asked me for help, and I have given what I could, whether it be a few dollars or buying a meal. I do not share this to make myself sound special, because I am not. I admit there have been times when I hesitated, feeling uncertain about the person’s intentions, but I ultimately decided that if someone was trying to deceive me, that was between them and God.

Finding Reasons to Be Thankful

I am thankful for my health, for having a roof over my head, food to eat, and my family. I am also grateful for my employment—both my full-time job and my teaching job. These are blessings I do not take for granted.

The people at my workplace make it easy to feel thankful, as they consistently treat me with kindness and respect.

Appreciation for Opportunities

I am grateful for the opportunity to share my words and thoughts, and for those who read and purchase my books. Although I am no Stephen King, it truly means a lot to me to have readers who value my work.

A Call to Gratitude This Season

During this time of year, let us remember to be grateful for what we have. Many are experiencing significant loss—whether it be people they love or other hardships. It is important to appreciate those who are in our lives today, because tomorrow is never guaranteed.

Choosing Thankfulness and Positivity

Happy Thanksgiving. Let us choose to be thankful and focus on things that bring joy, peace, love, and kindness, rather than those that foster negativity.

There are many in the world who spread hate and division, perhaps because they do not understand what it means to be grateful—even if they appear to have everything.