Gratitude beyond ‘comfort’ - Gifts hidden in ‘hard times’

Gratitude is something we all learnt from childhood. We are taught to say “thank you”, to appreciate people, and to recognise the blessings in our lives. Many of us even practise gratitude daily, reminding ourselves of everything good that surrounds us. But, have we seen the full picture? Do we express gratitude only when life is kind, or have we ever paused to thank life for the difficult moments as well?

Most people find it easy to be grateful for joy, success, comfort, and safety. But the idea of thanking life for pain, loss, or difficulty feels almost impossible. When we face suffering, we naturally search for a tiny spark of hope to hold on to. That is healthy – but it is still different from actually being grateful for the challenge itself.

SEEING STRENGTH IN SURVIVAL

The recent disaster reminded Jamaica of its resilience. Even those who lost homes or valuables found the strength to say, “Give thanks for life.” And it is true – once we are alive, everything else can be rebuilt. Material things can be replaced; the human spirit, once unbroken, can rise again. This gratitude comes from recognising the preciousness of life itself. It is gratitude for survival, for breath, for another day.

THANKING THE HARDSHIPS

Very few of us ever thought of thanking the storm. From childhood, we are taught to pray that bad things stay far from us. We ask for challenges to disappear. But deeper wisdom teaches: Learn to be grateful for every step - smooth or rough.

Every challenge has a purpose. Every storm carries a message. It is human nature to think we know what is best for us, but life often shows a bigger picture. The disaster shook us but it also taught us practical lessons, strengthened communities, and revealed the depth of our courage. Hard times shape us into what comfort never can. Strength always comes wrapped in discomfort.

UNCONDITIONAL ACCEPTANCE

Selective gratitude – thanking only for the good – is a limited mindset. It keeps us dependent on life going our way. But true gratitude is unconditional. It means trusting that everything, even what seems “bad”, carries a hidden gift.

When we pause and reflect, we find that every difficulty brought growth, skills, maturity, compassion, unity, or strength. The worst moments often become turning points that enrich our lives.

Let us train our minds to thank for everything – the good and the bad. Bad shapes us, prepares us, and awakens hidden abilities within us, enabling us to truly enjoy the good. Thanking the bad is deeper acceptance, surrender, and maturity. When we learn this, life becomes richer and far more meaningful.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica.