new science

As most things begin nowadays for me, I was at the library and I came across the following book, Thanks! How the New Science of Gratitude Can Make You Happier. First thought that came to mind? No, duh. Second thought? What's "new" about gratitude?

A few days later I came across an article from the March 2010 Ensign magazine, The Value of Experiencing and Expressing Gratitude by Dr. Vaughn E. Worthen. Dr. Worthen is the director of the counseling center through Brigham Young University and expressed his professional opinion on the impact of gratitude. He explained that this "new" field of study is directing patients to push their thoughts and actions towards behaviors of gratitude in all that they do. According to Dr. Worthen, "Current case studies and research show that cultivating and practicing gratitude can reduce symptoms in cases of mild to moderate depression and anxiety. Practicing gratitude can also lead to increases in optimism, vitality, happiness, a sense of well-being, and a greater satisfaction with life. Grateful people tend to generate more positive memories, reminding them of the good in their lives. Those with higher levels of gratitude are viewed as more empathetic and supportive, more forgiving, and more likely to assist others. Grateful people also report feeling less envious and more generous with their possessions. They thus enjoy better quality relationships."

This professional insight to gratitude meant a lot to me, but still, this isn't a "new" practice, is it? In 1 Thessalonians 5 verse 18 we read, "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you." This scripture teaches us that everything requires a grateful heart. Then in Doctrine and Covenants 78 verse 19, " And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more."

Gratitude is an action of receiving, an act of humility reverencing the abilities of others. From this, just as Dr. Worthen pointed out, comes an increased ability and capacity for happiness. It is no wonder to me that the scriptures repeat time and time again the necessity of giving thanks. According to the writings of the Book of Mormon prophet Nephi, "Adam fell that men might be, and men are that they might have joy." Gratitude allows the heart to open to its full capacity and allow love in so that an individual can be nothing but happy.

So, to all of those in the field of psychology, I admire your efforts in this "new" field, but I hate to report that it is really as old as the sands of time. Blessings beyond measure, happiness beyond belief awaits those who bestow upon themselves an attitude of gratitude based on the teachings of Jesus Christ from the creation of the world.