How God Works: The Science Behind Spirituality Gratitude: Why Every Day Should Be Thanksgiving
Nov 14, 2021
Diana Butler Bass, an author and religious scholar, joins Rabbi Geoffrey Mitelman, founder of Sinai and Synapses, to delve into the transformative power of gratitude. They discuss how gratitude isn't just a reflection on the past but a forward-looking emotion that enhances honesty, generosity, and relationships. The conversation highlights the importance of daily practices of gratitude, especially within religious traditions, encouraging listeners to embrace it as a multivitamin for the soul that strengthens community bonds and emotional resilience.
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Gratitude Shapes the Future
- Gratitude seems focused on the past but its true purpose is about improving the future.
- Religions embed gratitude in daily life to make life better beyond annual celebrations.
Gratitude Was Transactional in Rome
- Ancient Roman gratitude was transactional and bound economic survival, not heartfelt thanks.
- It structured a hierarchy of patrons and clients where gifts and gratitude were obligations, not free acts.
Gratitude as Free Gift Response
- Biblical view holds that all gifts come freely from God without obligation.
- Gratitude is a humble, free response to God's gift, inspiring us to give freely to others.
