I am grateful for what I am and what I have. My thanksgiving is perpetual.” Before modern neuroscience confirmed the numerous benefits of gratefulness, this sentiment shows that 19th century poet Henry David Thoreau already knew the importance of experiencing gratefulness in his life.

Those of us living today in societies of material affluence often take for granted what we receive on a regular basis. And because of how our brains are wired, we humans tend to focus primarily on what we lack (or perceive as lack!) rather than the many privileges we already enjoy. Yet what we focus on can expand. I believe gratefulness is a function of attention; it can be cultivated through sincere self-reflection. I have personally experienced the benefits of engaging in gratefulness practices during the last seven years.

I was immersed in the process of working on a book series on the world’s wisdom traditions that includes a book on Jesus’ love and wisdom teachings. I am very grateful because I was able to publish this book as well as others in the series against all odds. The creative process was both exhilarating and arduous, stretching me sometimes to my limits. Whenever I was on the verge of falling into a negative thought pattern I focused on my heart center, gradually shifting my attention to the countless blessings in my life. A personal “gratefulness list” is a simple yet powerful tool we can all apply regularly. I was  moved and humbled as I realized that I never seemed to be running out of things to be grateful for.