4 A's of Gratitude

The word 'gratitude' has Latin origins, deriving from Medieval Latin 'gratitudo' (thankfulness) and Latin 'gratus' (thankful, pleasing).

It entered English in the mid-15th century, initially meaning "goodwill" before evolving to its current sense of thankfulness in the 1560s. 

The idea of gratitude was integral to ancient civilizations. Religions such as Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, and Hinduism all emphasize developing gratitude as a key moral virtue. This feeling was often conveyed through intricate rituals and ceremonies that honored deities and recognized their generous gifts. The Greeks, for instance, practiced rituals and offerings to express thanks to their gods, a practice similar to "thanksgiving”. The Greek word eucharisteo, meaning 'giving thanks,' is especially significant, appearing in early Christian art and literature and linked to blessings and spiritual gratitude.

For millennia, gratitude has been a popular topic among philosophers.

“He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have.”

                                                                                    Socrates, Greek philosopher

He taught that peace begins with gratitude. Desire without contentment traps the soul in endless want, while true happiness grows from appreciating what already is.

Philosophers like Marcus Aurelius encouraged daily reflection on the "precious privilege" of life, a mindset often visually represented by serene images of nature or simple, mindful moments full of gratitude.

“A grateful mind is a great mind which eventually attracts to itself great things.’

                                                 Plato, Greek philosopher

For him, gratitude entailed not merely thankfulness for anything, but a constant awareness of the gift of being alive.

Gratitude is also described as “social glue” that fortifies relationships—between friends, family, and romantic partners—and serves as the backbone of human society.

But what exactly is gratitude? Why do some people seem to be naturally more grateful than others? And are there ways we can foster more feelings and expressions of gratitude?

Over the past two decades, scientists have made great strides toward understanding the biological roots of gratitude, the various benefits that accompany gratitude, and the ways that people can cultivate feelings of gratitude in their day-to-day lives. Research suggests that gratitude is not simply a cultural construct. It has deep roots embedded in our evolutionary history, our brains and DNA, and child development.

Neuroscience studies have identified brain areas likely involved in experiencing and expressing gratitude, providing further evidence that gratitude is an intrinsic component of human experience. Additionally, a few studies have identified specific genes that may underlie our ability to experience gratitude. Recent studies have also begun exploring the developmental roots of gratitude. This work suggests that even young children have some concept of gratitude that develops as they mature.

Again, this suggests that the roots of gratitude run deep.

The 4 A's of Gratitude

The "4 A's of Gratitude" is a framework for deepening one's practice of thankfulness and improving interpersonal relationships.

This theory puts forward 4 concepts of expressive practice: Awareness (noticing good things), Acknowledgment (recognizing their source), Appreciation/Acceptance (valuing them), and Action (expressing thanks), helping shift the focus from lack to abundance and fostering deeper connection and happiness. There are variations, some of which include Admiration or Affection, but the core idea is a mindful process from noticing to responding positively. 

 Here's a breakdown of the common components:

1. Awareness/Attention: The first step is to consciously notice and focus on the positive aspects, whether small or large, in your life rather than passively going through your day.

2.     Acknowledgment/Acceptance: Consciously recognizing that this goodness exists and comes from outside yourself (people, nature, a higher power) and actively embracing it.

3. Appreciation/Admiration: Valuing these positive aspects, people, or qualities and feeling thankful for them.

4. Action/Affection: Expressing your gratitude, whether through words, deeds, or showing love and fondness, to deepen the feeling and impact others.