Opinion: Choose to be ‘Grateful No Matter What’

Commentary by Jeff Worrell 

I was behind a car the other day sporting a bumper sticker proudly proclaiming the driver to be “Grateful No Matter What.” I realized it is from a local Church, Our Lady of Mount Carmel. In our fast-paced world, where interactions often feel rushed and impersonal, OLMC’s tailgate signage is a great reminder that gratitude can be a powerful force, regardless of the situation. Research consistently shows that this simple, yet profound practice does more than just make us feel good — it fundamentally changes how we interact with others and perceive our world.

Gratitude, at its core, is our way of acknowledging the good in our lives and recognizing that many of these positive elements often come through the actions of others. Harvard researchers have found that practicing gratitude is strongly associated with greater happiness and more positive social interactions. When we cultivate thankfulness, we naturally become more attuned to the kindness around us, creating a foundation for civil discourse and meaningful connections.

As we navigate our relationships in families, workplaces, public spaces and the roadways, practicing gratitude becomes more than just saying thank you. It becomes a pathway to more meaningful and respectful interactions. It reminds us that civility isn’t just about following social rules; it’s about recognizing our interconnectedness and expressing genuine appreciation for one another, “No Matter What!”

Jeff Worrell is a Carmel City Council member and a civility proponent. To contact him, you may email Jeff4Civility@gmail.com.