Appreciation vs. Gratitude

We have been told that by practising gratitude we can then see a shift in our lives. In my personal opinion this practice is a good way to form a foundation to assist us in manifesting.

I however would like to share that for some of us the word gratitude may remind us of an emotion of indebtedness.

One line of my religion is that of a Catholic. For me, the word gratitude in someway or other tends to feel like I am a ‘sinner’ – one who does not deserve but since I have something, I need to be glad. We seem to be indoctrinated that we need to be grateful that Jesus was crucified to wash away our sins and we are reminded of this all the time. Hence, whenever I use the phrase – ‘I am grateful’, I do not actually feel empowered. (Yes, institutionalised religion has messed me up).

This also can be seen when someone does something good for us, we say ‘I am so grateful’ and this in turn may cause a sense of indebtedness to that person.

I found using the word – Appreciate, tends to flow better for me. It gives me a sense of being grateful and also empowered. For those of you that do find the same challenges when using the word grateful, try and replace it with appreciate –

‘ I am most appreciative of…’ or ‘I appreciate…’

Take care everyone and be kind to yourself and to others.