The Science of Gratitude

Saying "Thank You!" has been a matter of courtesy in society. Which brought to mind Fr Romy Antimano who, during one of his homilies, described those who don't say it as walang modo (rude).

Apart from being part and parcel of being courteous, being grateful has been found a niche in science. I came across an article in Reader's Digest ("How the New Science of Thank You Can Change Your Life" by Deborah Norville, January 2008) which features how gratitude could affect our physical and emotional well-being.

One study showed that grateful people were less depressive, envious and anxious, and more likely to help others. Another hypothesized that good feelings generated by expression of appreciation intervene in the release of dopamine, the chemical found in the brain associated with happiness.

Asked how the science of gratitude could be used, Robert Emons from the University of California said "I think gratitude is a demanding quality. It's a discipline, an exercise."

How to exercise it, the article offers 3 steps:

1. Record your thanks - Jot down three things that happened during the day that made you happy or inspired as well as why these made you feel OK. Take note too of who made you happy, if any.

2. See the patterns - As you record your thanks, you'll notice a consistency. You'll be able to find that some will highlight the people you value, meaningful experiences, etc.

3. Catch the boomerang - If you make others feel appreciated, others will treat you the same. It's like giving you more energy to do good to those who value you.

4. Seize the moment - Put your gratitude into action. Do your hobbies. Serve the community. Anluwage.com offers you an avenue where you could hone your talents and skills in reaching out to others.

Filipinos, I believe, are a grateful people. And this is supported by our celebrations like Christmas, fiestas, and even birthdays. Even in game shows, I am touched how ordinary folks would give thanks to God for their winning a prize. Perhaps that's what makes us cheerful and warm even in the midst of crises. As we face another year, let's rediscover this trait so we could use it to make our country move forward and to make the Lord's abiding presence ever more felt by everyone.