There’s something about being thankful that seems to grow over time. As the years accumulate our sense of gratitude deepens.

One possible explanation is that, as our lives lurch forward, we accumulate more life experiences about which to feel thankful. Sounds simple enough.

On the other hand, as the years pass we also encounter more disappointments, failures, and heartaches. So perhaps the simple march of time alone can’t quite explain why we seem to develop a growing sense of gratitude – as contrasted with one of mounting bitterness and regret.

Then again, perhaps it’s life’s shortcomings that give us the pause we need to scrutinize? Perhaps they help us more deeply appreciate the precariousness of the world and of our very existence. And, by extension, the delicate thread on which everything which we hold dear hangs?

For anyone whose life is graced with loved ones, there comes an accompanying risk for heartbreak. Disappointment, illness, loss. And yet as our thoughts turn to family and friends, our sense of gratitude only deepens.

So, in the end, I suppose it is our awareness of such dangling swords that sharpens our sense of appreciation for this temporary reprieve. For even as we know loss looms on the horizon, today’s connection with loved ones becomes all the more priceless as current treasure.

Simply put, the more we respect the precarious nature of life, the deeper grows our wellspring of gratitude. Which offers much joy in this very moment – for which we can be thankful.