How can I increase the feeling of gratitude in my life?

Gratitude, or 'Shukr' in Quranic teachings, is not merely a moral virtue but the very backbone of a rich and fulfilling spiritual life. The Holy Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of gratitude, considering it a hallmark of true servants and a sign of genuine faith. This concept extends far beyond a simple utterance of 'Alhamdulillah' (Praise be to Allah); it is a state of the heart, the tongue, and the actions, encompassing one's entire being. To increase the feeling of gratitude in life, one must strengthen these three dimensions and transform gratitude into a lifestyle. Initially, it's crucial to understand that gratitude is an acknowledgment of Allah's endless blessings. When a person looks around, from the act of breathing, seeing, and hearing, to having a family, health, security, and sustenance, all are blessings bestowed by Allah without any expectation of return. This recognition and heartfelt acknowledgment are the first steps on the path of gratitude. The Quran invites us to reflect on creation and divine blessings to awaken this feeling within us. In Surah An-Nahl, verse 78, Allah states: "And Allah brought you forth from the wombs of your mothers while you knew nothing; and He made for you hearing and sight and intellect that perhaps you would be grateful." This verse clearly indicates that the purpose of granting these fundamental blessings is for humanity to achieve gratitude. The next step is verbal gratitude. Expressing blessings and praising Allah Almighty with the tongue is one of the most important manifestations of gratitude. Uttering 'Alhamdulillah' in every situation, after every meal, upon waking up, and upon encountering any blessing, brings the heart to remember the Giver of blessings and strengthens this connection. This linguistic habit gradually influences one's thinking and inner feelings, guiding them towards positive thinking and contentment. Daily prayers themselves are an example of practical and verbal gratitude, in which worshippers express their utmost humility and thanks to Allah through prostration and bowing. Supplication (Du'a) and communion with Allah, asking for increased blessings and expressing thanks for what has been given, are also ways to strengthen verbal gratitude. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 152, Allah says: "So remember Me; I will remember you. And be grateful to Me and do not deny Me." This verse not only emphasizes gratitude but links it to the remembrance of Allah and equates the abandonment of gratitude with ingratitude (Kufr al-Ni'mah). However, the most complete form of gratitude is practical gratitude. This means using the blessings Allah has bestowed upon us in the right way, in a manner that pleases Him. If Allah has given us health, its gratitude lies in using this health for worship, serving others, and seeking knowledge. If wealth has been granted to us, its gratitude is to spend it in lawful ways, avoid extravagance, and give a portion to those in need. If we possess knowledge and wisdom, its gratitude is to use it to serve society and enlighten others with truths. This type of gratitude demonstrates the depth of one's faith and places them among the 'Shaakireen' (the grateful ones). The consequences of practical gratitude are immense. In Surah Ibrahim, verse 7, Allah states: "And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, 'If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.'" This divine promise is the most powerful motivator for increasing gratitude. The increase in blessings is not just material; it also includes increased spiritual tranquility, inner contentment, success in endeavors, and blessings in life. To practically strengthen this feeling, we can implement several daily practices: Firstly, keep a 'gratitude journal' and daily list a few blessings we have in our lives. This gradually trains our minds to focus on what we possess rather than what we lack. Secondly, when facing challenges and difficulties, try to find the positive aspects and hidden lessons within them. Even amidst calamities, there may be blessings such as patience, spiritual growth, or new opportunities for which gratitude makes the hardship easier to bear. Thirdly, look at those who have less than us. This comparison (which is recommended only for worldly matters, not spiritual ones) helps us appreciate our own situation and resources. Fourthly, engaging in good deeds and helping others is a form of practical gratitude that generates a deep positive feeling. When we use our blessings to help others, we are, in essence, expressing gratitude for those blessings, and Allah has promised an increase. Ultimately, gratitude creates a positive cycle: gratitude for blessings leads to an increase in blessings, and increased blessings, in turn, lead to more gratitude. This cycle fills a person's life with blessings, contentment, and peace, bringing them closer to the ultimate purpose of creation: servitude and proximity to the Divine. So, let us, every day and every moment, in all aspects of our being, be grateful for Allah's countless blessings and cultivate this invaluable feeling in our hearts and lives.