Children who suffer from overabundance often take things for granted instead of developing the virtue of gratitude, a virtue that must be cultivated throughout life. Celebrating and nurturing gratitude is something commonly done in the classroom as Thanksgiving approaches. But we often forget that gratitude is a principal trait of the Christian believer and meant to be lived year-round … even during Lent, or perhaps, especially during Lent. We are familiar with the various disciplines of Lent—prayer, fasting and almsgiving—but perhaps not so familiar with the idea that, as Father Henri Nouwen explains, gratitude can be lived as a discipline. He writes, “Gratitude as a discipline involves a conscious choice. I can choose to be grateful even when my emotions and feelings are still steeped in hurt and resentment. It is amazing how many occasions present themselves in which I can choose gratitude instead of a complaint. … The choice for gratitude rarely comes without some real effort. But each time I make it, the next choice is a little easier, a little freer, a little less self-conscious.” The past two years have been difficult for children, so enabling them to move beyond difficulties by choosing gratitude, helps them become happier and more hopeful. Steps for cultivating gratitude in the classroom: Prayer—Prayers asking for God to help them have thankful hearts can be written by students and teachers together and prayed during Lent. Scripture also offers many teachings on gratitude, including Colossians 4:2, “Persevere in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving …” This is an excellent chalk board or white board quote which includes steps for cultivating gratitude. Noticing—Children are perceptive but sometimes need to be reminded to observe the world around them. Who or what do they see in the course of the day that should give rise to gratitude? Did they notice the principal in the hall, the maintenance staff cleaning up a spill, the cafeteria staff making sure they received their meal? What about the bus driver, the coaches, or their parents who get them home safely every day? Reflecting—Give students time to reflect on the people or blessings they notice each day and ask them to think about why they should be grateful for them. Older students may be encouraged to reflect on what elements of their faith they might be grateful for: Jesus’ life and death on the Cross; the Holy Family, the Mass, Easter Sunday. Responding—How may children (and teachers who are models) express their gratitude? Children may come up with some very creative ideas of their own, but suggestions may include spiritual bouquets, thank you notes, artwork, and good deeds. A prayer a day thanking God for one person or blessing they notice will nurture their sense of gratitude. Participating in Mass and lighting a candle for someone. Praying a decade of the Rosary in Thanksgiving for all of God’s blessings and for the intentions of those who have less. For young learners, RCL Benziger’s “Catholic Prayers and Practices for Young Disciples” includes a visit to church with descriptions and illustrations, Order of the Mass, the Rosary and Stations of the Cross, and a liturgical calendar to color, and much more.
Mary Regina Morrell, mother of six and grandmother to nine, is a Catholic journalist, author, and syndicated columnist who has served the dioceses of Metuchen and Trenton, New Jersey, and RENEW International in the areas of catechesis and communication.