We find ourselves bestowed with the gift of existence, wherein nature graciously furnishes us with sustenance in the form of food, water, and life-giving oxygen, among other blessings. Throughout our journey, individuals, whether consciously or unwittingly, have contributed to the enrichment of our existence.
While we undoubtedly strive earnestly in pursuit of certain objectives, there exist facets of life that effortlessly come to us.
Have we expressed gratitude to everyone for these things, or have we thanked them? Have we not forgotten to show appreciation to them?
We normally get caught up in our busy lives and neglect to show how grateful we are for the people and things around us. This is why World Gratitude Day is celebrated every year on 21st September to remind us of the importance of expressing gestures of thanks and appreciation.
By taking time, one day a year, to reflect on the many amazing things we have in our lives, it positively impacts our well-being and make us happier, more contented people. It helps improve self-esteem and lower symptoms of restlessness and depression.
The power of gratitude and appreciation dates back to 1965. Since then, people have been observing World Gratitude Day every year. The credit goes to Sri Chinmoy Kumar Ghose (better known as Sri Chinmoy), an Indian spiritual leader and meditation teacher who conceived the idea at a gathering in the United Nations' meditation room. (Sri Chinmoy was a multifaceted personality and it will be interesting to read about his life and works.)
In the realm of existence, the shadow of night coexists with the radiance of day; the concept of good finds its counterpart in the presence of bad; birth unfolds alongside the inevitability of death, and sorrow shares its space with the profound notion of happiness. Consequently, if we persist in dwelling within the confines of negativity, we shall undoubtedly forfeit the opportunity to recognize life's benevolence.
Hence, it behoves us to perpetually abide in a state of gratitude, relishing whatever bounties bestowed upon us by life. Focussing on what we have, instead of what we lack activates contentment and joy.
A little bit of gratitude can go a very long way. It is important for people to feel appreciated for everything that they do.
Humility stands as a cornerstone of human virtue. This attribute begets gratitude, and in turn, cultivates our innate humanity. And humility comes from seeking forgiveness.
In this connection, it's worthwhile to mention a lovely festival celebrated by our Jain community. Each year, at the end of this 8-day festival, on Samvatsari, Jains greet their friends by saying "Michchhami Dukkadam".
Michchhami means to be fruitless (forgiven) and Dukkadam (Dushkrut) means bad deeds. Therefore the meaning of Michchhami Dukkadam is my bad deeds (with you) be fruitless. It basically means, "If I have offended you in any way, knowingly or unknowingly, in thought, word or deed, I seek your forgiveness."
By doing these things they become more sensitive and experience inner sense of satisfaction. Notably, the Samvatsari festival was observed a day prior, on the 20th of September.
So, if knowingly or unknowingly with my posts, comments, or words, I have hurt you, I fold my hands to seek your forgiveness.
I also express my gratitude and convey my heartfelt appreciation to those who peruse my posts, as well as those who choose to let them pass, for both are equally valued and deserving of acknowledgment.
--Kaushal Kishore
images: pinterest
No comments:
Post a Comment