Success is often defined in today’s fast-paced world as promotions received, wealth gained and goals met. In the hurry to go forward, there is one rare human attribute that is slipping away from the lives of people, and it is one of the greatest gifts.There is one precious human virtue that is becoming hard to find in today’s world amidst the rush to go forward, and it’s one of the greatest gifts – gratitude.
In a society where people seldom take time to recognise those who have helped them along the way. Giving thanks is delayed, gratitude is not expressed, and kindness is expected. However, thankfulness remains one of the strongest attributes that can enhance relationships, improve well-being, and foster strong bonds between individuals.
This is a timely reminder of the power of gratitude to change a life, as told through the story of Hannah. From her childhood, Hannah had developed the habit of being thankful. She acquired it from her grandmother Eunice, who always taught her to be grateful for every small and big thing that others have done for her. This blessed attribute of Hannah set her apart from her friends and family.
Hannah was in the final year of her degree. She was very studious and scored high in all her semesters. Unfortunately, she was unable to pay her fee and therefore could not continue with her classes. Knowing her situation, her friends decided to contribute and help her. Hannah went around to seek money, but it was in vain. She never realised the plans that her friends had for her.
On what she believed would be her last day at college, Hannah walked to campus carrying a heavy heart. She expected her access card to be deactivated. She anticipated being denied entry to classrooms and the library. But the situation was different when she went there.
Her identification card worked perfectly. The library doors opened. She was able to borrow books and attend classes as usual.
Relieved, Hannah walked down the hallway to her classroom, but she was still confused. It wasn’t until then that she learned the facts. Her classmates had agreed among themselves to pay the necessary fees so she could remain in school. They were giving each other no thanks or applause; they had taken it upon themselves to see that one of their brightest friends could continue her education.
The realisation overwhelmed her. Tears flowed freely as she struggled to find words sufficient to express her gratitude. In this one moment, she discovered a great lesson: kindness comes quietly, without asking for anything in return.
Many years later, Hannah’s educational achievements earned her a prestigious job at a well-known company. Her career took off immediately, and she quickly became a team leader.
However, unlike many leaders who focused solely on performance measures and targets, Hannah brought lessons from past experience. She intentionally developed a culture of thanksgiving in her team.
Colleagues were urged to recognise each other’s work. The team members were taught to give thanks to those who helped, guided and supported them. The effect was astounding. Interpersonal relationships within the group improved. During challenging projects, members worked together better and helped each other out. There was greater trust, fewer conflicts, and higher productivity.
When annual evaluations were announced, Hannah’s team emerged as one of the highest-performing units in the organisation. Management attributed the success to excellent leadership. Team members were aware that there was something more. Thanksgiving was the magic ingredient.
Life has a fascinating way of reconnecting people. Many years later, Hannah attended a family celebration hosted by one of her team members. As guests gathered in the banquet hall, a familiar face caught her attention. He was John, one of her classmates who helped her complete her studies. Hannah hastily ran from her seat to meet him.
They met and embraced each other. Tears rolled down their faces. The people around them were surprised as to how they knew each other. Her teammates were wonder-struck to witness this.
Later, while addressing the gathering, Hannah shared her story openly. She spoke about the financial hardship she had faced as a student and the extraordinary kindness shown by her friends. Pointing to John in the audience, she acknowledged him publicly.
“He was one of the people who ensured that I completed my education,” she told the crowd.
The hall erupted in applause. When Hannah asked what brought John to the event, she discovered that the young professional being celebrated that evening was John’s son. The circle of kindness had come full circle. What began as an act of generosity between classmates had evolved into a lifelong bond connecting families and generations.
Modern research has demonstrated that grateful people are less stressed, have better mental health, healthier relationships and a higher level of life satisfaction.
Gratitude promotes positive emotions and enhances social relationships. Companies that foster appreciation among their staff members tend to see improved teamwork, morale, and productivity. Studies also show that gratitude can benefit physical health by decreasing stress-related symptoms and enhancing sleep.
But, in fact, being grateful is not only good manners, it is a potent instrument for personal and collective good health.
In the digital age, communication is now instant, but appreciation is less and less common. We tend to focus on what we don’t like when it doesn’t go our way, and forget to give gratitude when someone goes out of their way to help us. There are so many ways in which parents, teachers, colleagues, support staff, friends and people we don’t even know are making a difference in our lives in ways that we don’t see. What would happen if we ALL had the habit of expressing gratitude, on a conscious level, every day?
Remember, Hannah’s story is a testament to the fact that success is not always individual. There are people who made it possible, people who encouraged me, people who supported me, people who sacrificed for me, people who were kind towards me; behind every accomplishment, there are people. In a world on the move and chasing dreams, maybe the most crucial words we need to master are “Thank you”. After all, gratitude is not just a response to kindness; it’s a way of life.
Sibi Shaji and Biju
Dharmapalan
(Dr.Sibi Shaji is the Pro-Vice Chancellor of Garden City University , Bengaluru and Dr Biju Dharmapalan is the Dean-Academic Affairs of Garden City University ,Bengaluru. Email:bijudharmapalan@gmail.com)
Sunday, June 28, 2026