Written by Kee on January 08, 2024. Posted in INFINI Culture Months.

November: Gratitude

Gratitude is a profound and impactful emotion, influencing various aspects of personal well-being, social dynamics, and overall life satisfaction. Here are some thought-provoking questions that delve into the concept of gratitude:

How does the practice of gratitude alter our perception of adversity or challenges in life?
- This question explores the potential of gratitude to transform our perspective on difficult situations.
Is gratitude innate or can it be cultivated, and if so, how?
- This prompts a discussion on the nature of gratitude as an inherent trait versus a skill that can be developed.
What is the relationship between material wealth and gratitude? Are people with less more grateful than those with more?
- This considers the impact of material circumstances on the ability or inclination to feel grateful.
How does expressing gratitude affect relationships, both personal and professional?
- This explores the role of gratitude in strengthening or altering various types of relationships.
Can gratitude have a dark side or become detrimental in any way?
- This question delves into the potential negative aspects or misinterpretations of gratitude.
How does the practice of gratitude change across different cultures and societies?
- This invites examination of the cultural nuances and expressions of gratitude.
In what ways can gratitude impact mental and physical health?
- This considers the scientific understanding of gratitude's effects on overall health and well-being.
How can organizations and leaders foster a culture of gratitude in the workplace?
- This looks at practical ways to encourage gratitude in a professional setting and its potential impact on work culture.
What is the role of gratitude in overcoming historical grievances or societal conflicts?
- This explores the potential of gratitude in healing and reconciliation processes.
How does the digital age and social media influence the expression and experience of gratitude?
- This addresses the impact of modern communication technologies on how gratitude is expressed and perceived.
Is there a difference between feeling grateful and expressing gratitude? How do these aspects interact?
- This delves into the distinction between internal feelings of gratitude and their external expression.
How can parents and educators effectively teach and model gratitude to children?
- This considers strategies for instilling a sense of gratitude in younger generations.
What are the barriers to feeling or expressing gratitude, and how can they be overcome?
- This examines the challenges people face in experiencing or showing gratitude.
How does gratitude influence or interact with other emotions like happiness, sadness, or anger?
- This explores the complex interplay between gratitude and other emotional states.
Can the practice of gratitude contribute to broader social change or community well-being?
- This question invites discussion on the potential of gratitude to inspire and drive social and communal improvements.

These questions can stimulate insightful discussions or personal reflections, encouraging a deeper understanding of gratitude and its profound impact on various aspects of life.

Gratitude is less of a fleeting feeling and more of a deliberate posture we choose to adopt. It's the practice of intentionally shifting our focus from what's lacking to what's present, transforming our perspective in the process. We'll discover how this simple but powerful discipline can serve as an antidote to anxiety, build resilience, and foster a culture of deep appreciation for our work and, most importantly, for one another.

A Posture of Gratitude - A Choice in All Circumstances

This theme introduces gratitude as a deliberate, foundational choice, rather than a fleeting feeling dependent on circumstances.
- Verse: "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
- Discussion Prompts: This verse presents gratitude as a command or an instruction ("give thanks"). How does this differ from viewing gratitude as just a spontaneous emotion?
- Discussion Prompts: What is the difference between being thankful for all circumstances versus being thankful in all circumstances? Can you share an example from your work or life where this distinction was important?
- Discussion Prompts: How could adopting a team posture of "gratitude in all circumstances" change how we approach challenges, setbacks, or tight deadlines?
The Antidote to Anxiety - Gratitude and Peace

This theme explores the practical and psychological power of gratitude to counteract worry and bring peace.
- Verse: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV)
- Discussion Prompts: Why do you think Paul lists "thanksgiving" as a key ingredient when presenting our anxious thoughts and requests to God? How does gratitude reframe our worries?
- Discussion Prompts: Can you think of a time when shifting your focus from a problem to what you were thankful for actually brought a sense of calm or a new perspective?
- Discussion Prompts: What is a practical way we can build a moment of thanksgiving into our workday, especially when we start to feel overwhelmed or stressed?
The Fuel for Gratitude - Remembering the Good

This theme focuses on the act of remembering as the fuel for a grateful heart. Gratitude grows when we intentionally recall past and present goodness.
- Verse: "Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s." - Psalm 103:2-5 (NIV)
- Discussion Prompts: The psalmist commands his own soul to "forget not all his benefits." Why do you think it is so easy for us to forget the good things and focus on the frustrations?
- Discussion Prompts: While this psalm is personal, let's apply it to our team. What are some "benefits" of our work life that we can easily take for granted? (e.g., a helpful colleague, a stable job, challenging work, a past success).
- Discussion Prompts: What is one thing you can do this week to "remember" and acknowledge a "benefit" or a good thing someone else on the team has done?
The Outward Expression - Gratitude in Community and Work

This theme brings it all together, showing how an internal posture of gratitude should overflow into our actions, our words, and our work.
- Verse: "Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." - Colossians 3:15-17 (NIV)
- Discussion Prompts: This passage connects being thankful with how we interact with others ("teach and admonish one another"). How does a culture of gratitude change how we give and receive feedback?
- Discussion Prompts: Verse 17 says, "whatever you do... do it all... giving thanks." What does it look like to write an email, join a meeting, or complete a task "with gratitude"? How does that change the quality or tone of the work?
- Discussion Prompts: Who is one person on our team or in our company that you are grateful for? What is one specific action you can take this week to express that gratitude in either "word or deed"?