Gratitude for Health

Our health can be something we easily take for granted–especially when we’re young. As we get older, we start feeling (and talking about) the effects of aging. But even if our bodies have become more achy and less flexible, we can be thankful for all that our bodies are able to help us do every single day. And it is wise for us to set good examples for our kids in expressing gratitude for our physical health.

Can we walk? Let’s be thankful for that! Can we use our hands to get things done? Let’s be grateful! Can we see, hear, and speak? Let’s not take those things for granted! God created our bodies, and they are amazing. Even if they don’t look as good as we wish they did, our bodies are still capable of doing so many things. Let’s make sure our kids hear us being thankful for all that our bodies do, not hear us just when we complain about them. And, of course, we should also be demonstrating to our children how to care well for our bodies.

Parents, let’s look for ways to help our kids be aware of and thankful for their own health. As they run and play, comment on the strength and energy they possess. As they brush their teeth, put on shoes, or pick up their toys, talk about what a big deal it is that they can do these things with ease. As they talk, dance, climb, reach, spin, clap, and jump, point out how wonderful and capable our bodies are…and give thanks to the One who created them!

At the same time, let’s be sure that we are aware of those whose bodies are not as healthy, strong, or capable. Through this perspective, we can be mindful and respectful of others, while also remembering to be grateful for the good things about our own bodies. And if we or our children are the ones whose bodies are not in full health, strength, or capability, we can purposely choose to focus on what our bodies CAN do and be thankful for this. Because if we are alive, our bodies are still doing some amazing things!

No matter where we fall on the spectrum of health and ability, I believe we can all find something to be grateful for.