Why Is Genuine Gratitude Always Positive?

Tangible or intangible, big or small, gratitude is always empowering.

Photo by Mark Casey on Unsplash

There is no such thing as negative gratitude. Sure, there’s false gratitude, but that’s not gratitude. Genuine, true, real gratitude is always positive.

Genuine gratitude is an expression of appreciation. Appreciation is a direct pathway to kindness, compassion, and empathy. Everyone, everywhere, desires kindness, compassion, and empathy (sometimes inappropriately jealously, which is how we get so many who want it but refuse to give it. But I digress).

Kindness, compassion, and empathy are strengths, not weaknesses. Contrary to the narrative of certain demagogues, kindness, compassion, and empathy build strength, connectivity, and make us all better, not weaker. They are also in abundant supply, with more than enough to go around for everyone, everywhere, and more.

Saying thank you, giving thanks, and offering gratitude are all positive, empowering acts. What’s more, they are just as powerful when given as when received.

Gratitude can do no harm in and of itself. It’s only harmful when people demand or expect it, abuse those who give it, or it’s not genuine gratitude.