EMI Graduates on Gratitude

EMI Graduates share what they learned about gratitude during their teacher training.

"It’s not happiness that brings us gratitude; it’s gratitude that brings us happiness."

Gratitude is more than a fleeting feeling—it’s a practice, a way of orienting ourselves to the world and each other. At Engaged Mindfulness Institute (EMI), gratitude is not just something we teach; it’s something we live, breathe, and return to again and again on the path of transformation.

For many EMI students, the training experience becomes a sanctuary during turbulent times. It’s not just about learning to teach mindfulness—it’s about becoming part of a community that sees you, holds space for you, and walks with you through growth and challenge.

“I am filled with gratitude for the course, the path, and the community.”

– Sheila, MTT500 Grad

Sheila’s words reflect the quiet strength found in connection. The path of mindfulness can be deeply personal, but it’s rarely walked alone. In each circle, each forum post, each shared meditation, there is a weaving of something sacred—an unspoken agreement to show up with compassion and presence, for ourselves and one another.

For others, gratitude emerged as a lifeline during hardship.

“This has been a challenging year for everyone, in myriad ways, and rather than this program being a ‘box to check’ each week, it was a respite and a reward.”

– Tommy, MTT Grad

In a year marked by global upheaval and personal uncertainty, EMI’s courses became an anchor. The simple act of showing up to the work—of breathing together, reflecting deeply, and staying in dialogue—offered a powerful counter to isolation and overwhelm.

Then there’s Heidi:

“That was a huge leap to deepen my practice. I become more open to uncertainty, and more courageous to explore my own pain and suffering, and the pain and suffering of others… I started to tap into the limitless of my own capacity to be compassionate, to be joyful for others’ wellbeing… I truly appreciate this course, the path, and community.”

Her words reveal that gratitude stems not only from what we receive but also from what we can offer. As our practice deepens, we discover new methods to embrace joy for ourselves and others. We learn to rejoice in the healing of those around us, to feel a connection through their development, and to observe the transformative power spreading outward.

We see how gratitude arises not just from what we receive but from what we’re able to give. As we deepen in practice, we find new ways to hold joy for ourselves and others. We learn to celebrate the healing of those around us, to feel connected through their growth, and to witness the transformative power rippling outward.

At EMI, gratitude is not a final lesson. It’s the ground we stand on, the thread that holds us, and the invitation to keep showing up—with open hearts, humble spirits, and the courage to walk together.