Appreciation is a context of mind (an attitude) that colors your experience of life.

For five minutes at the beginning of your day, and five minutes toward the end, sit quietly in a quiet place.

With eyes closed, call to mind the people who have given you intangible (immaterial) gifts. (If this seems difficult, think of teachers, or childhood friends, or extended family.)

As you bring them to mind, say silently, “[Name], you have given me the gift of [name it], and in appreciation, I offer that to you now.”

Then imagine that the gift is reflected back to them by the power of your appreciation.

Melanie Hack
Author of Who Killed My Sister, My friend
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