To join this evening with Geshe Sherab you need to register via [our website.](https://www.maitreya.nl/nl/programma/the-power-of-gratitude-geshe-thubten-sherab)
What is gratitude, really?
In Tibetan Buddhism, gratitude is far more than a polite feeling of thanks — it is a way of seeing. It begins with recognizing kindness: noticing how much of our life, from the food we eat to the language we speak, depends on the effort and care of countless others, most of whom we will never meet. This recognition naturally softens the heart and opens it toward compassion.
Gratitude in this tradition is closely tied to the understanding of interdependence — the insight that nothing exists on its own, and that our wellbeing is woven together with the wellbeing of others. When we truly see this, gratitude stops being an occasional emotion and becomes a steady way of relating to the world.
Why does this matter today?
In a world that often pulls us toward comparison, dissatisfaction, and a sense of not having enough, gratitude is a powerful antidote. It is said to be one of the most direct paths to genuine contentment — not because we ignore life's difficulties, but because we learn to notice what sustains us even in the midst of them.
Cultivating gratitude also has a ripple effect: a grateful mind is less prone to anger, resentment, and isolation, and more inclined toward generosity and connection. In this sense, gratitude is not only a personal practice, but a quiet contribution to a kinder, more peaceful world.
All are welcome, regardless of background or experience with Buddhism.
About Geshe Sherab
Geshe Thubten Sherab was born in a small village in the the western part of Nepal. He entered Kopan Monastery at the age of nine and completed his Geshe studies at the famous Sera Je monastery in South India, followed by a year at Gyumed Tantric College.
Since then, Geshe Sherab served the Foundation for Preservation of Mahayana Tradition (FPMT) in several roles, including Headmaster of Kopan Monastery’s school, Director of the FPMT Board and Headmaster of the Kopan Monastery. Currently Geshe Sherab is the resident teacher in the Thubten Norbu Ling FPMT Center in New Mexico, USA and also spends much of his time touring the world and teaching.
Geshe la has a unique gift of presenting often complex Buddhist topics in a simple, warm and accessible manner and teaches in English. He has much experience with Western students, which helps him to explain Dharma to us in a practical and applicable way
