Continuing our Joy is Central series, this December Gratitude is Central. Jewish tradition encourages us to pause and give thanks multiple times every day. Research now shows what Jews have known for millenia: expressing gratitude can bring us joy.

Watch as Rabbi Maurice Salth shares the way he expresses gratitude in his daily life.

This December, make gratitude “central” by doing one of the following:
 
1) Write a note of thanks each week to someone who has made your life better.
 
2) Keep a gratitude journal; write down a list of a few things each day that make you feel grateful.
 
3) Put a note on your mirror, reminding you to give thanks each morning for simply awakening to a new day. You can read the text of “modeh ani” or simply say “thank you.”

4) For more wisdom about gratitude (and a story you can tell the young people in your life), see this video by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal: