As very young children, we are taught to say "thank you" in response to gifts and good deeds bestowed upon us. The wisdom of Kobbi reveals to us the deeper meaning behind this seemingly polite obligation.

Whether we say our "thank you" to a person, to God or to the vast universe, we induce for ourselves a sense of gratitude and appreciation. In turn, our hearts are full and we feel content.

This fundamental principle of the art of thankful living teaches us that saying "thank you" is an important life skill. Not because we are expected to and not because we are told to, but simply, because it is good for us.

The wisdom of Kobbi also impresses upon us what happens when we do not live with a natural sense of appreciation.

In the absence of thankfulness, we perceive life as a day-to-day struggle, allowing illusions of lack and disappointment to consume us. Unhappy and discontent, we are ill-equipped to navigate the stress in our chaotic times.

When we learn to ask (and answer), "What am I thankful for—in this moment, about that experience, today, or in general?"—our spirit is awash with a sense of abundance and joy. We leave no room for anything less.