Want to Show Your Gratitude Today? Thank the People Who Deserve It

In a reflection that seems perfectly appropriate for today, atheist Jennifer Furner writes about how she can be thankful for what she has in her life without appealing to a Higher Power.

I don’t use the word “blessed” anymore.

Instead, I say “lucky.” I don’t believe in luck, exactly, only the arbitrariness of my good fortune. My life is merely a smattering of circumstances. If any of those circumstances had been changed in any way anywhere along the way, so would my life be changed.

…

Without God, I’m more aware of how my actions affect others and affect my surroundings. I don’t expect God to save our planet, so now I’m more careful about what I throw away and I eat less meat. I don’t expect God to save humanity, so now I speak out against hate and try to be more patient and loving with my fellow humans. When tragedy comes, I don’t send thoughts and prayers; I give hugs and meals and help where I can.

Remember that tonight. It’s possible to show gratitude to those who actually deserve it. If you’re lucky, you’ll be surrounded by some of them.

(Image via Shutterstock)