New Study Suggests Volunteering Makes You Happy

This morning I noticed and article about a study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill that which suggests that “small thoughtful gestures and a little everyday gratitude can yield a great deal of happiness and help strengthen personal relationships.” The nerd in me loves a scientific study quantifying the value of something we’re taught is of social value (and often instinctively recognize as important) but it’s actually the date of this article that got me thinking.

Perhaps it is no coincidence, but today is exactly six months from Thanksgiving day – in another six months we’ll be celebrating this feast of gratitude again. Though we may be on opposite calendar pole of the holiday season, I try to continually carry the attitude of gratitude we feast for every November. This is particularly true in respect of the numerous positive relationships in my life, so many of which are part of community here at St. Anthony Foundation.

It may not seem like much, but (like the study suggests) I’ve personally found that little acts and expressions of gratitude can make a world of difference in my perspective on life. Here at St. Anthony Foundation, I am continually grateful to our guests, clients, and patients whose stories and perspectives invaluably enhance my understanding of the joys, pains, and needs of our community. I am grateful for our committed donors and sponsors whose generosity is a true expression of compassion. I am grateful to the staff and volunteers here at the St. Anthony Foundation whose love and dedication drives our services and inspires my own work.

Being a part of this community has pushed me every day to place my whole heart into every simple, earnest expression of “thank you” and has enhanced my gratitude with the motivation to give back in appreciation for all that I’ve received.