Five
years ago, an essay of mine on
selfishness and public service appeared in The Hartford Courant. I sent a copy to my grandmother. She said she’d like me to write about
gratitude. I’ve thought about that ever
since: what have I to add to all that has been said about gratitude, about
thanksgiving?
I now believe that true gratitude is not in
what I say. True gratitude is not just a
feeling I have. True gratitude is
manifested by how I live my life, how I serve, how I share.
Do I live as though I am entitled to all I
have, if not more? Or does my life
reflect to others my gratitude for my blessings?
Do I serve others out of obligation and
self-righteousness -- or out of gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to
their lives?
