IN Pakistan, we need to cultivate an attitude of gratitude in our daily lives — it helps in dispelling negative attitudes, thoughts and feelings. Grateful people are happier, less depressed, less stressed, and more satisfied with their lives and social relationships.

The Holy Quran is filled with the ideas of gratitude. Islam encourages its followers to be grateful and express their thanks to God in all circumstances. Islamic teaching emphasises the idea that those who are grateful will be rewarded with more. The pillar of fasting during Ramazan is for the purpose of putting the believer in a state of gratitude. Spirituality is capable of enhancing a person’s ability to be grateful and, therefore, those who regularly attend religious services are more likely to have a greater sense of gratitude in all areas of life.

Gratitude has been said to mould and shape the entire Christian life. Martin Luther referred to gratitude as “the basic Christian attitude” and today it is still referred to as “the heart of the gospel”.

In Judaism, gratitude is an essential part of the act of worship and a part of every aspect of a worshipper’s life.

Extensive research done by the University of California, has revealed that feelings of gratitude and thankfulness towards Almighty God in our daily life leads to a stronger immune system, healthier blood pressure, better physical and mental health, greater joy, optimism and a sense of overall well-being.

Engr. Mansoor Ahmed
Faisalabad

Published in Dawn, May 29th, 2017