The Healing Journey

August 23, 2026

A lesson from the tenth leper

For much of my life when I fell down on my knees in front of the tabernacle, my prayer went something like this: “Please, Jesus, PLEASE ____!” (Fill in the blank.)

Lately, however, I’ve been trying to pray, “Thank you, Jesus, THANK YOU!” I’m convinced the more we say “thank you,” the more we’ll realize all that we have to be thankful for … and develop the attitude of gratitude.

When we say, “Thank you, Lord,” and not just for the big things like good medical test results or getting that coveted promotion, but also for the seemingly little things, we’re expressing our trust in God’s providence and our appreciation for his blessings.

Remember what St. Paul told the Thessalonians? “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” That’s often a difficult concept to grasp and even the Thessalonians probably thought, “Is this guy crazy?” How can we thank God for everything that happens? But Paul understood a fundamental principle of the spiritual life: All things work together for good to those who love God.

On many occasions, Pope Francis said the three most important things we can say are “Please … thank you … and I’m sorry.” Many people, of course, aren’t accustomed to saying “thank you” because they think they’re owed what they get. They always want more or they’re not satisfied with what they have and are envious of what other people have.

Saying “thank you” is so important. Quite a few times, I gave gifts to family members and friends over the past year … and didn’t get one thank you note. Maybe I’m thin-skinned or maybe I want more recognition than I deserve. Or maybe we’ve forgotten how important it is to say “thank you.” It’s always painful to be unappreciated for an act of kindness or generosity. I can only imagine how Jesus felt when he healed those ten lepers and only one came back to thank him. The nine walked away as if they were entitled, but one expressed gratitude to God. There’s a lesson there for all of us.

People who understand the importance of gratitude are among the happiest and healthiest people. Many studies link an attitude of gratitude to good physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well being. Grateful people don’t report as many health problems. They enjoy more happiness and suffer less depression and stress. They have higher self-esteem because rather than comparing themselves with others, they’re thankful for what they have. They’re also more empathetic and less resentful, not to mention they get a good night’s sleep.
©J Pisani

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