28 Nov Kansha & the Arrow of Gratitude
As the weather cools across Los Angeles, we’re reminded of the subtle shifts that mark the season.
Crisp mornings and golden afternoons invite us to slow down, gather with loved ones, and savor the warmth of connection.
The Thanksgiving holiday offers us a chance to pause amidst our busy lives, not only to enjoy these moments but to reflect on the gratitude they inspire.
In the spirit of this, I’d love to share one of my favorite Japanese words: kansha (感謝), which beautifully captures the idea of gratitude as an intentional practice.
Kansha is composed of two kanji: 感 (kan), meaning “feeling” or “emotion,” and 謝 (sha), meaning “thanks” or “gratitude.”
Together, they remind us that gratitude begins as an internal acknowledgment of the goodness in our lives and extends outward through our words and actions.
This idea can also be visualized through the Japanese character for “arrow” (矢, ya).
Like an arrow released from a bow, gratitude is not meant to remain within us.
It begins in the heart, takes aim at those around us, and moves outward with purpose and intention.
Gratitude, when practiced, becomes a force that connects us to others and uplifts everyone it touches.
Living with Kansha: Sending Out Gratitude
How can we embrace the spirit of kansha in our lives? It starts with noticing the good, no matter how small, and finding ways to share our thanks.
- A Small Gesture: Write a note, send a message, or simply say “thank you” to someone at Harvard-Westlake who has made a difference in your life.
- Daily Reflections: Begin or end your day by thinking of three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your perspective from what’s lacking to what’s abundant.
- Mindful Actions: Pay forward an act of kindness—support a teacher, lend a hand, or offer a smile. These small acts of gratitude, like arrows, create ripples of positivity.
Gratitude also doesn’t have to wait for big moments or holidays.
As poet E.E. Cummings beautifully expressed:
I thank You God for most this amazing day:
for the leaping greenly spirits of trees and a blue true dream of sky;
and for everything which is natural which is infinite which is yes.
Gratitude invites us to notice these everyday wonders, whether it’s the sound of laughter, the comfort of a shared meal, or the quiet beauty of the changing season.
Practicing Kansha in Everyday Life
Kansha reminds us to find gratitude even in challenges. Difficulties, while not easy, can teach us resilience and help us grow.
Gratitude doesn’t mean dismissing hardship, but recognizing how life’s lessons shape us into who we are.
As John O’Donohue beautifully wrote:
May you awaken to the mystery of being here,
and enter the quiet immensity of your own presence.
May you have joy and peace in the temple of your senses, May you receive great encouragement when new frontiers beckon.
This Thanksgiving, let’s practice gratitude with intention. Let’s recognize the good in our lives, express thanks to those around us, and, like an arrow, send our appreciation out into the world.
Wishing you a heartfelt Thanksgiving holiday break filled with kansha and joy,
Harvard-Westlake Mindfulness Club
RECOMMENDED PRACTICE
A 5-Minute Mindfulness Practice:
The Arrow of Gratitude
