“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.”
While American Thanksgiving isn’t until some time next month, Canadian Thanksgiving is tomorrow. So, in keeping with the autumnal theme, I thought that it would be suitable to find a quote that finds the act of giving thanks.
John F. Kennedy, who you may know more simply as JFK, was the 35th President of the United States and he was one of the most beloved presidents of all-time. He handled some very challenging issues during his time in office before meeting his untimely demise. In the quote above, JFK reminds us that it’s not enough to say that we are thankful; we have to act on those words.
If you are thankful for the blessings you have received in your life, from food on the table to some success in your career, then you should be paying those thanks back in kind to society at large. It’s up to you how you want to express your gratitude, but it is important to live by the words and not just utter them. It’s human nature to complain, but realize that you are in much better shape than many other people around the world.
I was going to say that Theodore Roosevelt echoes John F. Kennedy’s sentiment, but it’s perhaps more appropriate to say the reverse is true. After all, “Teddy” served as POTUS over half a century before JFK got sworn in.
“Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds.”
Thank you for this bountiful plenty. Now bring on the turkey, gravy, and cranberry sauce. 🙂
Reminds me of Talk Less, Say More.
Too often we forget how blessed we are.