Gratefulness:

Showing understanding of thankfulness, being appreciative of benefits received.

The character trait of gratefulness teaches us to understand how our actions and words benefit each other. Gratefulness is more than a feeling, it involves expressing appreciation for others’ contributions. If you are grateful for your authorities you will obey, if you are grateful for your friendships you will be truthful and loyal, if you are grateful for your possessions you will be thorough and organized in caring for them. Gratefulness helps to put aside pride in times when the heart says I can do it by myself, I have made myself, I did it my way. If we are honest and humble, we will acknowledge that there have been others in our life that have helped us, be it our parents who encouraged us, be it that one special teacher, or a friend who saw the best in you, there are people who have invested in our lives to help us be the people we are today.

As a parent myself I encourage you to share with your children the people who have invested in your life — let them see your humility and gratefulness. Point out the different areas in your life where people have given to you. By raising the level of gratefulness in our homes the chances are that “thank you” will be said to someone.

“When we acknowledge that all of life is sacred and that each act is an act of choice and therefore sacred, then life is a sacred dance lived consciously each moment. When we live at this level, we participate in the creation of a better world.” — Scout Cloud Lee

We chose to begin the year with the character trait of gratefulness because we want our students to understand that they should be grateful that they are receiving an education. Many children across the world are not as fortunate and never get an opportunity to go to school or learn to read. At Julian Charter School our students also have parents who are willing to dedicate their time and talents to nurture their children’s educational process. As you begin the school year it is our hope that you will take time each month to include character development in your weekly activities.

Gratefulness Activities and Lessons:

Discussions:

• Discuss the people who have helped your children in their schools, community and family. Create a list and encourage students to recognize these people by thanking them.
• Discuss different ways you can show your appreciation. Talk about mentors, advisors and those that guide us. Try to be open to sharing your humility and gratefulness as you speak about those who have invested in your lives.

Activities:

• Make food or dessert for someone who has helped your family.
• Send notes of appreciation to city leaders, police officers, or other public servants.

Service Learning:

• Show your gratefulness to where you live by creating a brochure about your home city. Donate your brochure to the local Chamber of Commerce or Visitor Center to be used to help other learn about your home town.

Lesson Plans (PDF):

• Grateful Bio-Poem
• Memory Box
• Thank you notes: Write thank you notes to people to show your appreciation for something they have done or about a trait they exemplify.