Embracing Gratitude

Marcus Aurelius – A teacher of gratitude

Many of us recognize the name Marcus Aurelius from the movie, “Gladiator”, where he was portrayed as an ailing emperor, wise and beloved by his loyal subjects. In reality, Marcus Aurelius proved to be a philosopher, serving as emperor of Rome from A.D. 161-180). After reading the book, Meditations, which displays the philosophical wisdom of the Roman emperor, I now also feel his name is synonymous with gratitude.

Gratitude, in my opinion, is one of the forgotten characteristics of positive people. We are taught to look out for ourselves, to succeed at all costs, and the Machiavellian principal of the end justifies the means. All of these concepts programs our minds to be selfish in our pursuits of success and fortune. However, the power of gratitude can take us so much further in our search for happiness and fulfillment.

So, why do I connect Marcus Aurelius to the concept of gratitude? The first chapter of Meditations is titled, “Book 1: Debts and Lessons”. In this section, he thanks seventeen people in his life for teaching him valuable lessons, character traits, and mindsets. These include his grandfather, mother, father, teacher, friends, Maximus (the main character in Gladiator), and the Gods, to name a few.

Marcus Aurelius thanks these important figures in his life for teaching him compassion, integrity, self-control, optimism, and other lessons he values. For example, he recognizes Diognetus for teaching him to not waste time on nonsense and he credits his first teacher for telling him to “do my own work, mind my own business, and have no time for slanderers.”

Embracing your own sense of gratitude

I have read “Meditations” in its entirety three times now, always taking a new lesson away from it. However, I have read the “Debts and Lessons” section over twenty times alone, because it is such a powerful reminder of the role people play in our lives. We may define ourselves as honest, or brave, or giving, but where did we learn those qualities? Now, imagine taking the time and emotional energy to delve into each personal quality you hold valuable. Can you identify someone who helped you develop this trait?

So, I challenge you to actually follow Marcus Aurelius’ example and make your own list. Think about the people who have guided you along your journey of life, and for each one identify a lesson or trait they taught you. Write it down! Or, start with a trait you value and search your mind and soul for who helped instill it into you. Write it down!

In the end,I encourage you to write down your findings because it allows you to relive the gratitude you feel whenever you need a reminder.

For the ultimate student of gratitude: Brave souls only

Now, go a step further and contact the people you added to your list. Read them what you wrote. Let them know the effect they had on your life. Thank them for being a positive influence and for molding a positive example of humanity for you. Trust me, this exercise is one of the most powerful and humbling moments you can experience. You will feel a strong sense of happiness and gratitude overcome your mind, body and soul. You will also see this flowing through the person you are thanking, which is much more rewarding than your own positive feelings.

None of us grew to be the person we are today without the influence of others. Take some time out of your busy day to identify who helped shape your positive traits, thoughts, and emotions. Turn off your auto-pilot. Remember who you are quoting when giving your own advice. Appreciate those who taught you to use your manners. Thank those who taught you to ignore the naysayers and continue on with your dreams!

Embrace gratitude!

For more ways to unlock the powers of gratitude, contact MBS Performance Counseling today by visiting our website at https://mbsperformancecounseling.com/contact-us/