Appreciation

I have been thinking about the way we express gratitude in our daily lives. Most of us who wish to live peaceful, authentic lives are aware that acknowledging gratitude on a daily basis expands awareness of the beauty and gifts we have all around us.
But how good are we at showing gratitude to ourselves for the work we do, the compassion we try to show, the patience while listening to others’ pain, kindness to strangers etc. etc.
How does it feel to use the word appreciation instead? To me the word “appreciation” feels more empowering, as we can include ourselves in it, don’t you think? As we are all one, we cause an imbalance if we are less appreciative of ourselves than we are of the gifts we are GIVEN, or SHOWN.
I am going to give it a go. Anyone else’s experiences are welcome. Much love.