I saw this:
I nodded my head in agreement. I started to think of all the blessings I have filling my life. I have been able to travel and see many parts of the world. I have wonderful people in my life. I am in a good place in time.
Then I read the invitation from Ruth today.
Make a gratitude list.
Gratitude is a powerful catalyst for happiness. It’s the spark that lights a fire of joy in your soul. —Amy Collette
I started wondering how gratitude and appreciation intermingle. So I did what anyone does when you wonder something, I went to my friend Google. I was surprised to discover others had asked and answered the question: What is the difference between appreciation and gratitude?
Tanei the Science Guy wrote a blog post back in 2018 with that question as the title of a post. His take on it is time. Appreciation is living in the now. Gratitude is living in the past and the now simultaneously. I love the analogy Tanei gives:
Gratitude is the training wheels. Appreciation is when you take the training wheels off.
Perhaps you might dwell on appreciation this year. I know I am forming a mental list of all that I appreciate. If you are reading this, know that you are on my list and that is a good thing. 🙂
Elsie (LC), I love this quote in your piece. “Gratitude is the training wheels. Appreciation is when you take the training wheels off.” I’m working on this thing in the spaces in my life, trying to train my brain. Love you, Thanks for welcoming me back. I have never heard about this science guy! XO nanc
I love that quote too! Gratitude as training wheels. I think appreciation comes with age. I am learning to appreciate all the little things and for that I am grateful.
I love quotes. Thank you for these reminders!
That opening quotation is amazing, and the difference between those words is so interesting. I’ll be thinking about this and trying to live it. I appreciate being able to read your words every week!
Elsie – That opening quote is unbelievable. Thank you!
I’m happy you took the time to share your thoughts about appreciation and gratitude. You’re one of the reasons I’m able to have a well-lived life. Thank you for writing. Thank you for being you.
xo,
ruth
What a great opening quote on appreciating what we have. Taking things for granted is dangerous ground. You now have me pondering the difference between gratitude and appreciation. They’re inextricably linked. I am both deeply grateful and appreciative of your words, Elsie!
Gratitude and appreciation – we need more of both in our lives. Thank you for writing today.
Thanks. I needed this.
I really spend a lot of time reflecting and I am extremely grateful I have such a collection of memories. I appreciate having the ability to recall. I will work on being more aware of the difference.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Elsie. I appreciate you, too.
The year to appreciate what you have. I love this! Thanks for reminding us there’s much to appreciate today.