Lessons in Gratitude... From My Daughter

I’ve spent years teaching my daughter the importance of good manners. Like many parents, I’ve repeated the same gentle reminders: “Say thank you.” “Don’t forget to say please.” And honestly, I thought I was doing a pretty good job — until my own words came back to teach me a lesson.

My daughter has a cute way of reminding us when we forget to say thank you. If she does something she feels is worthy of gratitude and doesn’t hear it, she simply smiles, tilts her head slightly, and says, “You’re welcome.” No attitude, just confidence — as if to say, I know my worth, and you’re welcome anyway.

The first time she did it, I laughed. The second time, I felt convicted. Here I was, the one who spent years drilling thank yous into her vocabulary, and I was the one needing the reminder. I guess my training worked — just not the way I expected!

But her little “You’re welcome” moments got me thinking. How often do we move through our days forgetting to say thank you — not just to people, but to God?

A Daily Attitude of Gratitude

Gratitude is more than good manners; it’s a mindset. It’s easy to say thank you when life feels full — when the job is stable and the kids are behaving. But true gratitude shows up in the in-between moments: the early mornings, the messy middles, the prayers still waiting to be answered.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to “give thanks in all circumstances.”Not for all circumstances, but in them. That means even when life feels offbeat or uncertain, there’s always something to be grateful for — even if it’s just the reminder from a small voice saying, “You’re welcome.”

Simple Ways to Practice Gratitude Every Day

• Start and end your day with thanks. Whisper a quick “Thank You, Lord” when you open your eyes and again before you close them.

• Keep a gratitude list. It doesn’t have to be fancy. Jot down three small blessings — like sunshine, laughter, or a quiet moment.

• Say it out loud. Expressing gratitude to others builds connection and humility. A simple “thank you” carries weight.

• Notice the ordinary. God’s blessings often hide in plain sight — the morning breeze, the sound of your child’s laughter, or even the grace of being gently corrected by your own kid.

  
  

Gratitude Grows Joy

Each time my daughter says “You’re welcome,” I’m reminded that gratitude is contagious — and teachable. What starts as a simple thank you can shape our hearts into being more aware, more kind, and more joy-filled.

So today, I’m taking a cue from my little one. I’m slowing down, paying attention, and saying thank you — for the big things, the small things, and the sweet reminders that God uses the most unexpected teachers to keep our hearts humble.

What are you thankful for today? Comment below!