The Gratitude Attitude
When President Thomas S Monson gave his 1992 General Conference address “An Attitude of Gratitude,” I was five years old. The timing was perfect for my life. I grew up always hearing talks and lessons including those four words. It has helped to shape the way I live my life.
I know a few and have heard of many more people who are seemingly incapable of saying ‘thank you.’ I can’t imagine going through life and never acknowledging another person’s effort on my behalf. I think of all the people in my life who have done something for me – great or small – and I don’t think the quality of my life would be better for never appreciating how someone else has served me.
President Monson talks about five people we should be grateful for: our mothers, fathers, teachers, friends, and our country. I have been blessed in all these areas. I have good parents who love each of their children and work hard and worry hard that they are happy. I have had a few great teachers – in church and in school, but also in life. Some of my teachers have remained friends with me for decades, and many colleagues have taken me under their wing to encourage me and train me. My good friends, when you count them out, are few. I can’t say I have a huge circle, but I can say the people within my circle, especially my closest friends, are as valuable to me as if they were family. Some I share things with I don’t even tell my family! And I cherish them for that. Last of all, I am Canadian! And although we have had our issues, Canada is a great country. This country is beautiful, we enjoy our freedoms, and generally speaking, we are a really nice bunch of people! As much as I love to travel, this is definitely home.
Yes, I have so much to be grateful for. We all do. I like to express my thanks, and hope I can always do that. I think by being a little more grateful to each other, the world will be a more peaceful place.