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Should we feel gratitude for our life? To whom?
Gratitude is important feeling in interpersonal relationships. Gratitude encourages giving and giving encourages more gratitude, etc. On the other side, lack of gratitude comes with a sense of "entitlement" - they mutually create each other as well. Lack of gratitude discourages giving and creates a sense that the world "owes us" a living. "We are programmed to receive." Gratitude, in my opinion, offers an exit from that proverbial Hotel California and "programs us to give".
How about our life and other things shown in this video? Religious people usually thank God for these things. The camera shows a standing round of applause at the end of the video. I very much doubt that most people attending TED talks are religious, so the video must have stirred some emotion in believers and non-believers alike.
Do non-believers feel gratitude for these things? If yes, to whom?
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Don Wesley 50+
If you are more of an introvert, with excellent Mindsight, the "target" need only be a thought, within the mind.
I can say this because history proves it is so; centuries of history. Beauty is awesome and we express it, to a nameless we, called all of us. Just look at the internet comments that say “it’s awesome.”
30/40% of the population suffers from disorders that are function of early "attachment" dis-orders.
Those of us who experienced loving parents, tend to believe. Neuroscience has revealed this correlation.
Don’t ask me for my sources of fact; I can only suggest, you do your own studies.
This not a debate but just an answer conversation; something to think about.
Aware of and caring about us All.
Don Wesley [From The Silent Generation - 1930's]
Arkady Grudzinsky 50+
Excellent point...
"You don't look out there for God, something in the sky, you look in you."
Alan Watts
"The kingdom of God does not come with your careful observation, nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is within you."
Luke 17
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Don Wesley 50+
I am Very happy to hear from you.
From what you say, I see you are aware and I know that is good.
I also gather, that you care about those who suffer.
My Mind integrates the two and a thought appears - you see the "we" and will work to understand.
My Mind suspects you may work to help the victims of injustice.
Maybe as a Journalist.
It makes me feel good to see your interest.
My mind allows for errors.
I wish you, happy and serious thinking.
Until soon,
Aware of and caring about us All.
Don Wesley [From The Silent Generation - 1930's]
Arkady Grudzinsky 50+
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Arkady Grudzinsky 50+
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Arkady Grudzinsky 50+
Actually, I realize that I made my question somewhat loaded and provoking. Perhaps, intentionally. My opening statement implies that it's somehow morally wrong not to feel gratitude. On the other hand, considering something that just "happens" to us as a gift is, perhaps, seeing something that does not exist, "seeing things as we are" rather than "seeing things as they are". It may stand in the way of perceiving reality. And perceiving reality without pushing our agendas on it is important. Your perception may be more reflective than mine.
So, thank you for sharing your view.