Appreciation and Gratitude

Written by Anne Walter

Our daily lives are often interwoven with the words, “appreciation and gratitude.”  Although these words have different meanings, they are sometimes used interchangeably.  One definition of appreciation I found was, “the recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.”  Whether we are the recipient of a kind deed, someone helping us in some way, or an unexpected kind word or compliment…any one of these things are the unannounced niceties that we all appreciate.

On the other side of this thought process is the word gratitude.  I came across this definition, “the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.”  As you can see, both words are very closely intertwined as the word, “appreciation” is even stated in the above definition.  When someone extends help to me, i.e. – delivering a piece of furniture or sharing their “handyman talents”…I feel much more than appreciation, I am immensely filled with so much gratitude!...so for me, therein lies the difference between these two words.   

At various times, I will stop to reflect on those “appreciative” moments and how these brief interactions had such a positive effect on my day, all of which were so unexpected but so welcome!  And as my thoughts linger on the larger situations I’ve experienced, I am filled with immense gratitude and heartfeltly acknowledge how thankful I am!

Whether we are spared from having to deal with extremely bad weather, terrible circumstances, or even having a health scare, I continue to remind myself of the never-ending blessings I receive every day and to make sure I consistently acknowledge how fortunate I am…a way to maintain focus on what is really important in all our lives.  How Blessed we all are!