“One study shows that a daily gratitude intervention with young adults resulted in higher reported levels of the positive states of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, attentiveness and energy.” Lindsay Holmes
Gratitude is a practice in our home that started years ago when my daughter was tiny. Before she went to sleep we’d lay there in her bed, after reading and talk about all of the things we were grateful for. Many other random times either she or I will bring up what we are thankful for and she’s 10 1/2.
What are you grateful for?
I love how her school made Valentine’s day an opportunity for Gratitude. Each student wrote what they appreciated about each other. “I like how you always have so much fun! It puts a smile on my face!” was written by a 5th grade boy. My daughter loved reading all of the comments and for your enjoyment, they are typed below.
“You are such an awesome friend to have because you never give up! You may have a dirty mind that attracts anacondas! HaHa! :)”
“You are a good friend in many ways.”
“I love how you are so creative, wether it’s art, language arts and physical activity, you are always doing creative and weird things in a good way. You always say “yes”, “sure”, and things like that. The point is you always say yes unless you have to say no but if you say no, which is rare you say it in a polite way like “sorry I really would, but I can’t because I already promised someone else I would hang out with them. Otherwise I would be more than happy to hang out with you.” Happy Valentines Day!”
“You are always crazy in the happy song.”
“I love your spunky personality. Your mind can be dirty at times, but usually (most of the time) you are hilarious and funny. I love how you are always on the look out for fun!”
“Thank you for helping me decorate my poster my favorite was the swirl. Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!”
“It’s funny how your hair goes all over when you dance. You are a good friend.”
“You are a nice and active girl. You are super energetic. That is cool.”
“I admire how you’re always so up and running. You know what to say and when to say it. From the moment I met you I knew you would fit in. Never ever change.”
“I admire that you are a pleasant, compassionate person. You are also an animal lover, a good artist, and a good writer.” (this is from her crush;)
“I love how you can make anything seem funny even if it is super gross. You are a creative person and I am glad to be your friend.”
“I love it when you have so much enthusiasm about animals. You know more about animals than anybody else!”
“I love your spunky personality. You have a wise soul. Did I mention I so enjoy your dancing to “Happy”!” (from her teacher)
“I like how you are funny.”
“You are always so creative.”
“Your owl poster was good.”
“I like it when you go funny.”
“I like how caring and positive you are. You are very positive even when there are bad things going on.”
“I like it when you are so crazy because you stand out. I like it when you always look on the brite side.”
“You are a humorous kind person. I love how you do the Pink Day Dance, with a big smile on your face. You are always there to spread your happiness for anyone who’s having a bad day.”
What are you grateful for?