Strangely Enough, Gratitude Often Grows Through Suffering
By Steve Gahagen
One would think that the most grateful people are those who have it all. Or, that we are most grateful when everything is going our way. We should certainly be very grateful when everything seems to be in alignment.
But strangely enough, gratitude often flourishes in the midst of hardship and suffering. If you’ve ever taken a volunteer trip abroad, you might have been surprised at people’s joy and generosity - how those who had little were extremely generous with the little they had.
Often those who have faced severe hardship emerge with hearts of immense gratitude. I had a friend, who recently passed away, who had a difficult life and spent many years in prison, finally to emerge with a heart that was transformed to serve others. He and his family lived and served in a challenging neighborhood in Minneapolis. He never had much, but he lived like he was the richest man in the world.
Many people who exhibit gratitude of spirit are those who have been forged through hardship and pain. In the 17th century, Germany was in the middle of a 30-year war. Martin Rinkart, a Lutheran Pastor, lived in the walled city of Eilenburg. In spite of his frail physique, he stayed there throughout the war with all the horrors of famine and plague. He helped refugees from other areas who fled to the city. When all the other pastors had either fled or died, he ministered to the sick and dying, conducting over 4500 funerals, including his own wife’s funeral. It was he who penned the words to the famous hymn, “Now Thank we All Our God:"
Now thank we all our God.
With hearts and hands and voices.
Who wondrous things hath done, In whom the world rejoices; not from our mother 's arms Hath blessed us on our way
With countless gifts of love, And still is ours today.
As you celebrate Thanksgiving, consider how difficulty and suffering have been a part of your story.
How have the challenges you’ve faced made you more grateful?
What are you thankful for that no one can take away?
THANKSGIVING CONVERSATION GUIDE
Cultivate meaningful conversations this Thanksgiving. This free guide will help you and your family or friends:
Reflect on what you are grateful for
Share stories from the year
Encourage one another