2006-12-02 01:32:23 · 13 answers · asked by jenniaj1973 2 in Arts & Humanities ➔ Philosophy
Being thankful or grateful is something that can be taught ABOUT; however, for one to truly understand the lesson, one must experience the sensation for themselves. Example: I didn't truly understand what it was to be grateful until someone saved my sorry backside one night. I had heard the phrase, and had it explained ,yet until that night, (when I was already an adult) I didn't not truly understand what it was.
2006-12-02 01:36:19 · answer #1 · answered by Bradly S 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe you can show someone how to be grateful in the things you do, but that person cannot learn just from watching. They must be greatful on their own and experience the feeling to fully understand what it means to be grateful. Wouldnt it be great though, to teach people just how important it is to be grateful. I think the most important part of your question, is that the person has to want to be grateful because if not, they will not learn.
2006-12-02 14:49:21 · answer #2 · answered by JB 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I suppose they'd have to learn that not everyone is looking out for their best interests. But then someone did care to go out of their way to help them, then thankfulness should be the only response, and perhaps doing something for someone else in return.
However, I'm not too sure. If they're very selfish, they'd really have to lose something important, then get it back and be glad that someone cared.
Like if I dropped my hat, and someone picked it up for me. I'd be really grateful for that person being there when I never noticed my hat missing. I'm naturally grateful. :D
2006-12-02 01:51:21 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe people start off (as a babies) self-centered and selfish. That has to be a good trait for our evolutionary survival...but then we have to learn to live with others..another survival necessity...so teaching someone to be grateful should start at a young age...if it will help that person survive in it's environment.
2006-12-02 01:42:17 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I believe that gratefullness is taught. Parents play a hugh roll in the way a child thinks in regards to being appreciative for the things they have, grateful for the non- material things, such as their family, home and religion.
2006-12-02 01:47:40 · answer #5 · answered by kayboff 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The "teaching" is limited to manifestation of the feeling of gratitude.
Gratitude is experienced / happens with a level of perception when a person evolves out of self-awareness.
But most forms of gratitude we see is not the real thing... it is just an expression of 'mutual benefit scheme' to acknowledge to the other person 'in case'... etc.. mostly to flatter or pamper the ego... True manifestation of gratitude often speaks in action which is too overwhelming, and no way to go un-noticed !
2006-12-02 01:48:02 · answer #6 · answered by Spiritualseeker 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Both....you have to teach your kids how to be grateful...it is learned....adults however who is not grateful....all you can do is give your wisdom and hope it sinks in but people have to decide for themselves to change or not with what you say.
2006-12-02 01:43:43 · answer #7 · answered by Batman has left the building 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I think that can be taught in early childhood. Especially by not giving a child everything they want. People can't learn to be grateful unless they do without first.
2006-12-02 01:43:22 · answer #8 · answered by Big Bear 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Great question but probably the answer is no. You could give the person 'homework' or exercises but unless they practice it freely they are not grateful.
You can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink.
2006-12-02 01:52:39 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, take him/her traveling to some third world countries for 3-6 months.
2006-12-02 01:45:30 · answer #10 · answered by Captain Jack 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋