When we appreciate that someone let us merge in front of them while driving, we are thankful.
When we acknowledge our privileges (we all have them, even if we can’t easily see them), we are grateful.
When we feel relief because a meeting ended early, we are thankful.
When we reflect on the positive impact a boss or mentor has made on our lives, we are grateful.
When a donor known to be critical sends a complimentary note about our most recent event, we are thankful.
When a donor reminds us why generosity and a giving spirit are inspiring, we are grateful.
Being thankful is typically momentary, situational, and based on transactions.
Being grateful is typically a deeper, longer-term, worldview based on our attitude.
For those of us in the U.S., tomorrow is Thanksgiving.
My hope is that it’s also a day of Gratitude-giving.