Giving Thanks - Peter de Keratry

As we approach the time of Thanksgiving, let us remember the importance of gratitude. According to Cicero, “Gratitude is not only the greatest of the virtues but the parent of all others.”  Gratitude is at the core of our faith.  We are to give thanks to God and express gratitude for the many ways he shares his love with us.  Have you shown gratitude to your organization’s benefactors, staff, and volunteers?  Take the time to say thank you for all things large and small.  You will feel better for having done so and your supporters will become even more steadfast.  Studies show a correlation between increased gratitude and an increase in monetary giving. 

How often have you heard a benefactor say he or she is “giving back” as the result of someone having provided him/her with an opportunity or gift of some kind?  “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each must do as already determined, without sadness or compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Moreover, God is able to make every grace abundant for you, so that in all things, always having all you need, you may have an abundance for every good work.” 2 Cor 9:6-8