Word for May: GRATITUDE
May 8, 2008
Gratitude involves recognizing the good things that exist or that you already have in your life. People can show gratitude for people, places, physical possessions, and intangible things such as freedom, love, and friendship. Those who are grateful concentrate on what they have rather than what they wish to acquire and remember that the glass is always half full if they just choose to look at it that way. Instilling gratitude in children clearly takes patience since society tends to send the message that the person with the most “wins” and that “more” is usually better. But taking the time to model and teach appreciation is like “putting money in the bank.” It may be easier now to look away and hope that the children grow out of their selfish behaviors, but in the long run, taking the time each day to teach gratitude will pay dividends in the future. Not only can it help children to recognize and appreciate the many gifts they have, but recent studies have shown that youngsters who take part in daily gratitude exercises report higher levels of alertness, enthusiasm, determination, attentiveness and energy. These children are also more likely to be helpful to someone than other children who did not focus on gratitude. This month’s lessons will surely be important:
Young students: “I’m so thankful!”
Older students, teens and adults: Appreciating, recognizing, and being thankful for what you have.
During the four weeks of May we will be discussing the following:
Week 1: What is an attitude of gratitude? How can I show that I’m grateful?
Week 2: What do I need and want? How fortunate am I right now?
Week 3: Who are my favorite teachers/mentors and how can I thank them?
Week 4: What does “giving” have to do with gratitude? How can I give?
We thank you for your support. You are pivotal in helping to make our school one of the best Martial Arts and personal development centers in the world.
Best Regards,
Master Kravitz
Comments
Have something to add?
Submit your comments here, or in the USBA Pride Forum...
Quick Link: USBA Class Schedules
Click here for instant access to USBA class schedules!
January Specials & Events!
Featured Sponsors for 2009
