Celebration of Appreciation: A World Gratitude Day Event

Celebration of Appreciation: A World Gratitude Day Event

Poet Christine Michaels

September 22, 2012

Review by Karen Litzinger

The meditative music by Life in Balance had everyone filled with gratitude that they came to the World Gratitude Day event this past Saturday at First Unitarian Church which was a fundraiser for the Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council.  Steve and Ami Scuilli (pronounce SHULEE) had the attendees mesmerized with the quartz crystal bowl vibrations and native flutes.  The heartfelt music accompanied readings, meditations and audience sharing about gratitude. 

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council Table

Betty Duquesnoy shared a reading by researcher Robert Emmons that showed that the practice of keeping a gratitude journal increased happiness by 25%.  Singer Burton Roberts shared a moving rendition of What a Wonderful World made so popular by Louis Armstrong.  Then we were treated to selections of poetry that related to gratitude by poet, Christine Doriean Michaels which highlighted a moving poem by accomplished local poet, Joan Bauer. 

In addition to a unique mix of artistic offerings, the audience was engaged in the gratitude process through reflective writing exercises on “Gratitude in the Here and Now” and “Gratitude for People Who Impacted Us.”   One of the most moving parts of the event was when attendees shared their stories about individuals who affected their lives, especially a story about how homeless woman with a generous heart gave more to the giver than she received.

Ellen Marcus at Thank You
Note-A-Thon Table

Greater Pittsburgh Literacy Council students, Helen Finch and Tishawn Dent, spoke from their hearts about how grateful they are to the Literacy Council which greatly impacted their lives.

Following the program, all enjoyed a bountiful reception, Thank-You-Note-A-Thon and a lively international music by Life in Balance.  One of the most popular activities was the “Make Your Own” thank you notes table with supplies generously donated by Stamp Fanci in the North Hills.  And everyone enjoyed the Smiley Cookies donated by Eat ‘n Park as they wrote notes that will surely bring smiles to the lucky recipients.

The event was hosted by Litzinger Career Consulting and sponsored by Journeys of Life and Postively Pittsburgh Live™.

Karen Litzinger is celebrating 10 years in business as owner of Litzinger Career Consulting in Regent Square.  She provides career counseling and job search coaching for people of all ages from high school students through retirees.  Companies hire her for outplacement services and business etiquette training.