Gratitude, Generosity, and the Power to Change Lives

As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us pause to reflect on what we’ve been given: family, health, opportunities, and the simple blessing of food on our Thanksgiving table. Gratitude is more than a seasonal sentiment; it’s a transformative force that shapes our mental health, relationships, and even our financial decisions. 

Why Gratitude Matters  

Research consistently shows that people who intentionally count their blessings live happier lives and experience less depression. Gratitude improves physical health, increases life satisfaction, and strengthens social bonds. It helps us perform our jobs more effectively and encourages behaviors that build relationships and trust.  

The science behind gratitude is compelling. A UC Berkeley study involving adults struggling with depression and anxiety found that those who wrote weekly gratitude letters reported significantly better mental health than those who focused on negative experiences or did no writing at all. Gratitude frees us from toxic emotions, works even if we never share what we write, and rewires the brain for long-term benefits.  

Gratitude also influences financial health. Thankful people tend to be less materialistic, which leads to smarter spending, better saving habits, and long-term wealth accumulation. When we stop comparing ourselves to others, we gain freedom to build for the future rather than chasing fleeting status symbols.  

Generosity: The Happiness Multiplier  

Contrary to popular belief, joy isn’t found in accumulating wealth; it’s found in giving. A landmark study showed that people who spent money on others reported greater happiness than those who spent it on themselves. Volunteering reduces stress hormones and improves mental health, while generosity strengthens social connections and creates a ripple effect of joy. Arthur Brooks, in Gross National Happiness, argues that volunteering, family relationships, and spiritual growth are far more effective at boosting happiness than chasing financial gain.  

Generosity reminds us of our shared humanity. It’s not just about sporadic acts of kindness; it’s about adopting a generous mindset as a way of life. By consciously incorporating generosity into our daily routines, we contribute to the well-being of others and lay the foundation for our own enduring happiness.  

Would You Give $10 To Feed a Child for Five Weeks?

Help feed a child this Thanksgiving.

This Thanksgiving, Monotelo Advisors is partnering with Christ’s Hope International to support families who face an impossible choice every day: feed their children or pay for necessities. For many, even a small amount of food is out of reach. Christ’s Hope provides holistic, spiritual, physical, intellectual, relational, and emotional care to children living in extreme poverty. Their mission is simple yet profound: to help children thrive, not just survive.  

Did you know that $10 can feed a child for five weeks? In the U.S., that barely covers a Starbucks flavored latte, but in Sub-Saharan Africa, it can feed a child for over a month and give their family one less impossible decision to make. And thanks to Monotelo Advisors’ matching campaign, your impact doubles instantly. A $10 gift becomes $20, providing 10 weeks of meals. $25 becomes $50, covering six months. $100 becomes $200, feeding a child for two full years.

Your gift will be doubled as part of our matching campaign.  

These meals do more than fill plates; they create consistency in a child’s life. They allow parents to focus on stability instead of survival. They give children the strength to learn, grow, and experience the love of Christ in tangible, daily ways. Imagine the ripple effect: a child who is nourished can attend school, dream bigger, and break the cycle of poverty. A family that does not have to choose between food and medicine can begin to hope again. This is what makes your gift more than a donation; it’s an investment in dignity, stability, and opportunity.  

A Thanksgiving Wish for You

As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, all of us at Monotelo Advisors want to express our heartfelt gratitude to you, our clients, partners, and friends. Your trust and collaboration make our work meaningful, and we are honored to walk alongside you in your financial journey.

This season reminds us that gratitude and generosity are powerful forces for good. Whether it’s sharing a meal, lending a hand, or giving hope to a child in need, every act of kindness creates ripples that change lives.

From our family to yours, we wish you a Thanksgiving filled with peace, joy, and the warmth of connection. May gratitude guide your days, generosity enrich your life, and hope light your path.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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