A Conversation on Gratitude with Mrs. Carmona

At St. Thomas, we define November’s Value of the Month, Gratitude, as “choosing to appreciate the people and things in our lives.” More than a simple “thank you,” gratitude invites us to pay attention and notice life’s blessings, both big and small. Research shows that this practice strengthens well-being, deepens relationships, and fosters lasting joy.

This month, as we invite our school families to pause and practice gratitude with intention, I’m grateful to reflect alongside my dear friend and colleague, Mrs. Claudia Carmona, our Director of Spiritual Formation. Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, Mrs. Carmona brings more than 30 years of experience in education and ministry, serving children, adolescents, and families in both schools and churches. She leads our First Communion program and holds degrees in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, along with a master’s in Religious Education & Catechesis and additional certifications in Infant/Child Mental Health and Spiritual Direction.

Mrs. Carmona’s warmth, wisdom, and faith-centered perspective guide our community in recognizing God’s presence in everyday moments. I’m honored to share this conversation on gratitude with her—and with all of you.

 

Gratitude isn’t about perfection or perfect circumstances; it’s about cultivating an open, flexible heart.

Claudia Carmona, Director of Spiritual Formation at St. Thomas Episcopal Parish School

Q: How do you personally define gratitude in your spiritual life?

Mrs. Carmona: Gratitude, for me, is noticing God’s presence in both the ordinary and the challenging moments of life. It’s an intentional posture of the heart—choosing thankfulness even when it doesn’t come naturally. Gratitude is more than saying “thank you”; it’s paying attention to how God’s love is at work in my day, in blessings and difficulties alike.

Throughout the day, I often pause and pray simple words like “Be here with me, God,” or “Help me see through You.” Whether I’m at home, walking outside, or in the middle of a hectic morning, these small prayers help reorient my heart to God’s presence.

Q: Why do you think practicing gratitude is so essential for children (and adults) today?

Mrs. Carmona: In a world of screens, speed, and constant distraction, it’s easy to overlook life’s simple gifts. Gratitude invites us to slow down and be present with ourselves, with one another, and with God. It reminds us that the most meaningful “presents” are moments of connection, wonder, and joy. Practicing gratitude nurtures hope, builds resilience, and helps both children and adults move through life with greater awareness, generosity, and a sense of abundance, even in a fast-paced world.

Q: What are some simple, spiritually-filled ways families can nurture gratitude in daily routines?

Mrs. Carmona: For my family, nature has always been a way to stay grounded. It brings calm to busy days, lets the dust settle, and helps us notice the beauty we might otherwise miss. We practice small, mindful pauses at the end of the week, taking brief moments to breathe, walk, or simply be present with each other. When my adult daughter, Isabella, was younger, we spent time outdoors together, walking, paddle boarding at Matheson Hammock, and sometimes watching dolphins or sunrises. Some moments were full of wonder, and others were just quiet and simple, but they reminded us that life’s most valuable gifts are always present, and gratitude grows when we pay attention to beauty, stillness, and awe.

Small, intentional practices helped cultivate grateful hearts. We would share one joy or moment of peace each evening, name gifts we noticed in creation, or light a candle for a short prayer, like during Advent. I try to live by the wisdom of St. Teresa of Calcutta: “Do small things with great love,” reminding myself not to overcomplicate life, but to embrace these simple moments with care, attention, and gratitude.

Q: How can parents model gratitude, especially during moments of stress or challenge?

Mrs. Carmona: I try to begin each morning by asking God to help me be open to a shift in perspective. Gratitude, when seen as a perspective rather than just a feeling, is a skill we can teach children. By noticing positives, even in difficult situations, children learn flexible thinking and resilience. When we model calm, reflective responses and show how we manage big feelings, acknowledging our struggles while leaning on God’s help when our own strength runs out, children see that hope and resilience grow from recognizing God’s presence in every situation. Gratitude isn’t about perfection or perfect circumstances; it’s about cultivating an open, flexible heart.

Q: Can you share a time when practicing gratitude made a difference in your own life or perspective?

Mrs. Carmona: During a busy time in my life, when I had experienced some losses and felt overwhelmed, my community of faith and friends reminded me to be kind and patient with myself and to take pauses. I began taking short pauses, a breath, and a quiet prayer: “Hold me, God.” I also made mental lists of small blessings, like “The sun came out today, I am grateful” or “I can hear the birds sing.” Gradually, these simple practices shifted my perspective and helped me notice God’s presence in everyday life. I became calmer, more patient, and more aware of blessings I might otherwise have missed. This moment of challenge became an opportunity for growth and gratitude.

Q: As we move toward Thanksgiving, what are some prayers or traditions you recommend for families who want to focus more on gratitude?

Mrs. Carmona: One of our family traditions each Thanksgiving is the Gratitude Fall Leaves. The children make paper leaves, and each guest writes anonymously a few things they are grateful for. Later that evening, everyone randomly picks a leaf and reads it aloud. It’s always a tender moment, hearing friends and family come together to give thanks.

Families can also take part in school or church activities that nurture the soul. At school, we have an Advent Wreath-making activity connecting prayers of thanksgiving from faiths around the world. Parents and children might also join a Friday Pause and Pray, a 20-minute gathering after flag for reflection and connection. You can also create your own moments at home by pausing, breathing, and reflecting together.

Nature offers another simple way to cultivate gratitude. Take intentional walks and notice God’s creation—a sunrise, the cooler weather, or the rhythm of the waves. Offer short prayers throughout the day, like “Thank you for this moment” or “Guide me, Lord, to see your love in all things.” Praying the Lord’s Prayer together or saying a mealtime blessing invites reflection on God’s abundance and the people who bring love and care to our lives.

I also want to express my gratitude for all of you, this community that fills each day with joy, support, and love. I am gratefully yours!