Doing suggests intentionality. It calls us to resolve to see and actively acknowledge what is right and good in our lives, in our families, in our loved ones, and in our world.
- When: We do thankfulness when we notice a predominant and ongoing focus on what is wrong in our lives, in the world. We do thankfulness when we want to actively boost positive emotion. We do thankfulness when we want to express heartfelt gratitude.
- Why: We do thankfulness in these moments for ourselves, for others, for bringing forth Light. We do it to touch the fullness of life, seeing the totality of experiences, which often can hold life affirming potentials, even amidst difficulties. We "do thankfulness" as part of a path of being a grateful person
- How: We can notice the language we use to describe ourselves or others. There must be consistency and dignity extended to ourselves and others-especially those whom we find most difficult. We also recognize what is right, good, or even OK in our lives. "I'm so grateful for my friends, my family, that I have a roof over my head." "Wow! I am so lucky that I can read, write, think." "How blessed I am to have choices, to have legs, eyes, hands," for example. We do gratitude by calling forth things we're grateful for and feeling appreciation with intensity.
- When: It's beyond temporal experience. It is...
- Why: It allows us to be in this world-with some inherent suffering- and live with joy, purpose, and curiosity. It allows us to sit with others-at times with their pain- and just be present. No words, just presence and care, holding for them the truth that it will all be OK. We hold this truth for them because we have touched it in our own lives.
- How: Cognitively and intuitively. Cognitively: We ask questions that seek to inspire ourselves and others to goodness, purpose, and the healing of our world through acts of loving kindness. Intuitively: We orient to life in different ways: for some it will be nature, others, spiritual practices, music, play, and/or some other experience that attunes us to our inner core...It is beyond thought, it is...