But it is clear that some animals, such as chimpanzees and other non-human primates, seem to possess at least a more basic form of proto-gratitude, based on their ability to keep track of favors given to and received from different individuals.
Many consider the universal symbol of gratitude to be a spiral with three small dots along the bottom adjacent to where the spiral begins. Some believe the spiral element reflects early Celtic symbols, as spirals often played a role in Celtic iconography.
Camels are symbols meaning humility, willingness to serve and stubbornness. In medieval art and sculpture, the camel was used to represent humility and the willingness to bear another's burden; largely because camels are trained to kneel down to receive heavy loads.
One of the most iconic symbols of Thanksgiving is the cornucopia.
While several colors are believed to evoke feelings of thankfulness, the most widely recognized color associated with gratitude is the color pink.
Hydrangea. The always stunning hydrangea symbolises gratitude for being understood. They represent anything that is sincerely heartfelt and so perfectly represent that feeling of gratitude.
The dove is a symbol of peace, love and elicits the promise of hope.
The dove. The dove has been a symbol of peace and innocence for thousands of years in many different cultures.
Animal Symbols of Balance
Zebra – the black and white of the zebra symbolizes balance in all things.
#1 Dogs. Fiercely loyal and affectionate, dogs are the most popular animals and considered man's best friend.
We've heard from many adopters who tell us how “grateful” their rescued pet is to be adopted. How they show them their appreciation with tail wags, face licks, purrs and snuggles.
Dog - Typifies loyalty, kinship, bravery, perseverance, and happiness and also conveys protection and reliability.
The butterfly has been a symbol of transformation, hope and faith for thousands of years. The butterfly is also a symbol of rebirth, since it goes through so many life cycles -- from larva to caterpillar to chrysallis and finally to a beautiful, flying butterfly.
The eagle depicts the true image of freedom, soaring majestically above the earth with its wide and outstretched wings. The image of an eagle best symbolizes liberty more than any other symbol in existence.
Dolphins best represent harmony as they can exist peacefully with human beings and other animals.
The bluebird is a symbol of happiness in many cultures around the world, including in Russia, where it represents hope, and in China's Shang Dynasty, where it's a messenger of knowledge and enlightenment.
White tulips, in particular, symbolise forgiveness, honour, consideration and respect, making them the perfect apology flower.
Deep and hot pink roses convey appreciation, gratitude, and recognition, making them a great way to say "thank you!" Light pink roses are more often associated with grace, gentleness, joy, and happiness.
Yellow lilies symbolise thankfulness, joy and friendship
Yellow lilies make great 'thank you' flowers.
White: Reverence, purity, birth, simplicity, cleanliness, peace, humility, precision, innocence, youth, winter, snow, good, sterility, marriage (Western cultures), death (Eastern cultures), cold, clinical.
Gold. Whoever said that you can't have too much gold was wrong, especially for Thanksgiving. Gold symbolizes prosperity, understanding, and generosity. It's not just flashy as the color also represents spirituality.
Gratitude is pausing to notice and appreciate the things that we often take for granted, like having a place to live, food, clean water, friends, family, even computer access. It's taking a moment to reflect on how fortunate we are when something good happens — whether it's a small thing or a big thing.
Deer - Love, gentleness, kindness, gracefulness and sensitivity. Deer carries the message of purity of purpose, and of walking in the light.