According to Counting Blessings Versus Burdens: An Experimental Investigation of Gratitude and Subjective Well-Being in Daily Life, by renowned psychologists, Dr. Robert A. Emmons of the University of California and Dr. Michael E. McCullough of the University of San Diego, practicing gratitude has clear daily benefits. Expressing gratitude once a day boosts physical health, increases motivation to exercise, and enhances mental well-being. Studies also show that grateful people cultivate happier and more fulfilling relationships.

West Delaware has embraced the challenge to foster gratitude. The National Honor Society organizes an event where students craft thank-you cards for peers and teachers four times a year. NHS collaborates closely with teachers and students to design, print, and distribute the cards. Over 2,000 cards are shared annually.

“One day I sent an email to the NHS students about designing a cover for our cards this year,” Kathy Naughton, the NHS supervisor, explained. “Hannah Cantwell, a senior, hand-drew six or seven designs for us, and we’ve been printing and using them all year.”