
“a grateful heart is not only the greatest virtue but the parent of all the other virtues”
Cicero
Gratitude is something I’ve learned to hold dear. Not just as a polite gesture, but as a way of life. For me, expressing my gratitude isn’t just about saying “thank you.” It’s more about showing it and living it.
I’ve found that I express my gratitude best through acts of service. Whether it’s lending a helping hand, or simply being present and available, these little actions are my way of saying, “I see you, I appreciate you, and I don’t take you for granted.”
To me there’s something more powerful about going beyond words. When I help others, I feel like I’m giving back a piece of the love or kindness I’ve received. It’s my own way of paying it forward. Sometimes it’s in big ways, and other times it’s as simple as checking in on someone or offering my time when I’d rather rest (and trust me, having 4 children, most of the time, I’m exhausted 😂).
But every one of my acts of service carries meaning. Each one is a small reflection of the gratitude I carry in my heart.
Why is gratitude so important? Because it shifts your focus. In a world that constantly tells us we need more, more success, more recognition, more stuff, gratitude says, “What I have is enough.” It brings peace. It humbles us. It opens our eyes to the blessings we often overlook. And it deepens our relationships, because when people feel appreciated, they feel valued.
Gratitude also strengthens our faith. Personally, when I pause to thank God for what I have (even when it’s not everything I want), I’m reminded of His faithfulness. It keeps me anchored, especially in seasons where life feels hard or uncertain.
So if you’re ever feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled, I encourage you to start with gratitude. Write it down. Say it out loud. Show it through your actions and watch how it transforms your mindset and your heart.
Now I’d love to hear from you. How do you express gratitude? Let me know in the comments or reflect on it in your own journal. However you choose to do it, just make sure you’re doing it often.
With love,
Harmonie