The Independence of Being Thankful

It's official. Our 2016 holiday card has been re-branded to reflect 2019 sentiments -thanks over gratitude.

There is a distinction between the two, and I interpret it to be one of self-determination.

The word gratitude assumes much with its extra letters and multi-syllabic tone. It appears to be more powerful than thanks. Grateful also looks more elegant gilded across our greeting card.

Gratefulness assumes dependence on someone or something to be fulfilled while being thankful does not require anyone or anything other than oneself.

I find thankfulness to be more of a guarantee — more sustainable over time.

If, for example, as families of color, we compare 'getting in' and 'enrolling in' an independent school to let’s say moving from a legacy of creation to expansion (deeper discussion with Dr. Pamela Jolly), then being thankful is a much stronger position than being grateful.

If we remain grateful for the opportunity and don't move towards a more empowering thankful, we can miss the chance to leverage the privileged resources and networks found in independent day and boarding schools.

With your children, with your family, make the vision 20/20 in the new year. Create an educational vision board together and expand. Do it as valued stakeholders in your school. And, do it filled with thankfulness for the interactions you’re having and the legacies you’re building to transform communities and generations to come.

Happy Holidays, XO

RIISE