Charles M. Shelton is professor of psychology at Regis University in Denver, a licensed psychologist, and a Jesuit priest. This is his sixth book, and it offers a rounded and relevant overview of the spiritual practice of gratitude. Why should we study this virtue? Shelton gives some reasons: it enriches love, is a positive experience, helps communities as well as individuals, fights negativity, relieves stress, limits our selfish desires, and makes us better people. Speaking as a Jesuit, the author reveals the important role of gratitude to this Catholic order founded by Ignatius.
There are many obstacles that confront us when trying to put a gratitude practice into operation in our daily life. These roadblocks include entitlement, victimhood, rugged individualism, materialism, taking things for granted, manipulation, suffering, amnesia, lack of reflection, and negative moods. Shelton shares a few exercises we can try. Here is one:
"Millions of Americans log on to the Internet and use cell phones daily. Many of us have for screen savers or as pictures on our cell phones images of family, friends, or enjoyable moments we have experienced. Develop a habit several times during any ordinary day of not only viewing these pictures but focusing on them. Spend a few moments being grateful for the person or scene depicted on the screen."
Shelton lists the positive effects of gratitude on people who practice it: maturity, inspiration, insight, positive behaviors, positive emotions, connections, greater awareness, appreciation that they have more than enough, and an open mind. He heralds the prospect of people growing through the practice of this virtue and concludes with a chapter on Jesus as God's gratitude and a model of a grateful life. Shelton's book is impressive in its scope and depth revealing the many facets of gratitude.
