"To be grateful is to recognize the love of God in everything he has given us--and he has given us everything." Thomas Merton

Gratitude is a virtue that is sometimes ignored or unused.  Yet, it is the virtue that enables us to recognize the many blessings we have received, most of which are unmerited. God delights in showering us with his blessings, because of his great love and goodness. He does this whether we are grateful or not. He is not dependent upon our gratitude. But our gratitude enables us to receive his blessings more freely. For when we are ungrateful we block the generosity of God. Gratitude is like standing outside and enjoying the light of the sun. Ingratitude is to remain in a closed closet, blocking the sunrays.  How grateful are we?