The Symbol for Gratitude

Symbols carry so much power. They can evoke memories, emotions, ideas, and meaning and we have used them for thousands of years to get a message across. Symbols are characters or designs to represent something, and they often evoke powerful emotions. They can be recognized internationally across a range of unique cultures, and in using characters instead of words, they are universally understood. Since gratitude is the most powerful emotion, it is only fitting that it has an internationally recognized symbol to carry that power through cultures, communities, and countries alike.

Our brains have the ability to see the design in a symbol and process it in association with a specific word or meaning. When you hear the words “yin and yang” or “fleur-de-lis”, does your brain instantly visualize the symbol behind those words? This is the power of the symbol. As individuals, symbols carry personal power as well. They can be dear to our hearts because of what they signify, and we harness their power through art, tattoos, jewelry, and anything else we see frequently.

Gratitude is an essential part of living a happy and fulfilled life. It helps us appreciate the good things we have, the people who make our lives better, and the blessings around us. One way to express gratitude is by using a symbol that represents it.

While until recently there was not an official symbol of gratitude, it is believed the modern-day gratitude symbol is tied to ancient Celtic symbolism. Celtic symbolism frequently used spirals in many of their ancient symbols dating back to 500 BC. The current day universal gratitude symbol uses this as a baseline, representing how gratitude is the center of all things. You can find pictures of the symbol of gratitude here.