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With Gratitude
Poetry and prose to reframe your days, renew your spirit, and help you approach the world with an eye towards the positive, meaningful moments—with gratitude.
With Gratitude is a collection of relatable experiences that will inspire you to recognize the good in beautiful and difficult situations—both past and present. It is a meditation on the benefits of appreciating love, loss, relationships, and fleeting moments of kindness.
With Gratitude is a collection of relatable experiences that will inspire you to recognize the good in beautiful and difficult situations—both past and present. It is a meditation on the benefits of appreciating love, loss, relationships, and fleeting moments of kindness.
176 pages, Paperback
Published April 2, 2019
9 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
Marala Scott
11 books399 followersLatest Release: With Gratitude
Marala Scott is a multi award-winning author who has taken her prolific life story and shared it in her memoir In Our House: Perception vs. Reality, which chronicles a childhood unlike any other. She is passionate about making a difference in this world and shares her story along with a resolution to help others avoid having one like hers.
Oprah Winfrey took notice of her work and honored Marala Scott with the title of Oprah’s Ambassador of Hope in 2009. Her second book, Surrounded by Inspiration is a collection of personal quotes and testimonies to help empower all who read them. Her latest book, Bad To The Bone: The True Story Of David Tuccaro Jr. shares the journey of a young man that must find the courage and strength to battle something so vile and vicious, no one believes he can conquer it, because it's Bad to the Bone!Her latest award-winning novel, Intuition, co-authored with her daughter Alyssa Curry teach you why and how to trust your intuition in a romantic, psychological thriller based on true events. With Gratitude is a collection of relatable poetry and prose about finding the good in both beautiful and difficult moments. Gratitude is powerful emotion we should embrace.
Marala loves inspiring others, reading, writing memoirs and ghostwriting. She spends her free time cooking, fishing, and laughing from her soul.
Marala Scott is a multi award-winning author who has taken her prolific life story and shared it in her memoir In Our House: Perception vs. Reality, which chronicles a childhood unlike any other. She is passionate about making a difference in this world and shares her story along with a resolution to help others avoid having one like hers.
Oprah Winfrey took notice of her work and honored Marala Scott with the title of Oprah’s Ambassador of Hope in 2009. Her second book, Surrounded by Inspiration is a collection of personal quotes and testimonies to help empower all who read them. Her latest book, Bad To The Bone: The True Story Of David Tuccaro Jr. shares the journey of a young man that must find the courage and strength to battle something so vile and vicious, no one believes he can conquer it, because it's Bad to the Bone!Her latest award-winning novel, Intuition, co-authored with her daughter Alyssa Curry teach you why and how to trust your intuition in a romantic, psychological thriller based on true events. With Gratitude is a collection of relatable poetry and prose about finding the good in both beautiful and difficult moments. Gratitude is powerful emotion we should embrace.
Marala loves inspiring others, reading, writing memoirs and ghostwriting. She spends her free time cooking, fishing, and laughing from her soul.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
May 25, 2019
With Gratitude by Marala Scott
3.25 stars
Whimsical Writing Scale: 3
Plotastic Scale: 3.25
Cover Thoughts: I love the cover and the combination of the flower with a soft blue background.
Thank you, Netgalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing, for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
3.25 stars
With Gratitude is a simple poetry collection that focuses on finding and cultivating gratitude in your own life. These poems have heart and it’s obvious that this message is very important to Scott. I will admit that a lot of these poems sound like cheesy inspirational posters that hang in doctor’s offices, but those sayings are popular for a reason. People like simple things that remind to be grateful and this poetry collection does just that. I do think that this is an important side caveat that some of these poems in this collection are incredibly idealistic and overly indulgent in optimism. The problem is that not everyone can see the good because this world is so bad and some people will argue that cultivating this form of gratitude is impossible if struggling with mental illness or trauma (I would argue against that as my own personal testimony, but people lead different lives). I think this collection is all about perspective, but because not everyone understands their own perspective they make walk away from this collection filled with resentment instead of letting their hearts be opened to a different way of living. Also Scott is a Christian, so if you don’t want a sprinkling of poems about Jesus and God then this one may not be for you. I really liked this collection. It was full of poems I needed to hear in the moment and I recommend this collection if you are looking to cultivate gratitude or be reminded of where gratitude can be found in your own life.
Whimsical Writing Scale: 3
Plotastic Scale: 3.25
Cover Thoughts: I love the cover and the combination of the flower with a soft blue background.
Thank you, Netgalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing, for providing me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
August 19, 2020
3.75 stars
A really enjoyable and inspiring collection. It is clear the author's intentions and it was done effectively. This collection will inspire reads and allow them to reflect on their own lives.
This is a collection that you can totally read spread out. It is very much like advice and intentions, so it would be beneficial to possibly read one a day or space them out a bit.
Overall really enjoyable, it was more prose than poetry and more like advice than poetry.
Still done really well, I would be interested in checking out Scott's other work.
A really enjoyable and inspiring collection. It is clear the author's intentions and it was done effectively. This collection will inspire reads and allow them to reflect on their own lives.
This is a collection that you can totally read spread out. It is very much like advice and intentions, so it would be beneficial to possibly read one a day or space them out a bit.
Overall really enjoyable, it was more prose than poetry and more like advice than poetry.
Still done really well, I would be interested in checking out Scott's other work.
January 29, 2021
*Review Coming up
October 8, 2019
It is wonderful to share ideas and attitudes that have transformed your life of inspire you to be better.
Poetry and emotive prose can capture in short bursts feelings, concepts and life-affirming values other writing reflects but ends up overwhelming and burying.
With Gratitude, seeks to share ideas that we seldom notice or acknowledge, provides positive outlooks when we see problems, pain and poverty of spirit and love.
A collection to raise appreciation and open the reader's eyes to what they have and have let slip through their hands. Not to gauge it as half full but not yet empty and live for the moment. See the now, dismiss the past and embrace the future.
Strong words and a positive surge of energy in the reading of this collection.
Some my cringe at the simplicity and point out life's open sores and unhealed wounds. Some may bounce along and take it all on board in a sense of thankfullness euphoria.
For me it isn't a question of challenging the twee, or saying my burdens are greater. This is a rich source of reflection on seeking a more positice outlook and grasping life's essence.
Even if the words make you take issue at least you are now thinking in a new way; scared? One day you may turn the page and that poem resonates and brings a new contentment.
Poetry and emotive prose can capture in short bursts feelings, concepts and life-affirming values other writing reflects but ends up overwhelming and burying.
With Gratitude, seeks to share ideas that we seldom notice or acknowledge, provides positive outlooks when we see problems, pain and poverty of spirit and love.
A collection to raise appreciation and open the reader's eyes to what they have and have let slip through their hands. Not to gauge it as half full but not yet empty and live for the moment. See the now, dismiss the past and embrace the future.
Strong words and a positive surge of energy in the reading of this collection.
Some my cringe at the simplicity and point out life's open sores and unhealed wounds. Some may bounce along and take it all on board in a sense of thankfullness euphoria.
For me it isn't a question of challenging the twee, or saying my burdens are greater. This is a rich source of reflection on seeking a more positice outlook and grasping life's essence.
Even if the words make you take issue at least you are now thinking in a new way; scared? One day you may turn the page and that poem resonates and brings a new contentment.
March 21, 2019
The cover is really eye-catching, the poems are applicable unless you think you have it all figured out. I didn’t realize how much I have overlooked. It’s like going back to the basics and diving deep for the lesson that she shared in a neat relatable package. This is added to my collection. It a great book of poetry for reference in personal situations.
March 22, 2019
With Gratitide is an amazing poetry collection that pulls your heart strings with relatable topics. I highly recommend reading it.
February 28, 2019
There is so much to appreciate in this small, but lovely book. From its beautiful cover to the stirring words within its pages, I knew right away that I was holding something special in my hands!
Ms. Scott wants our journey through life, the good times, the hard and challenging times, to be all put into the framework of being grateful for the multitude of things we have been given, and continue to receive and have available to us each day if we but notice them. Of course, this isn't a new idea, and yes, many others have told us the same thing. But this author backs up her opinion by sharing beautiful, personal poetry with us.
There are so many poems that touched me within this book; among them A Painter's Canvas, Those Little Gifts, Inside the Storm, The Reward, Reframe the Picture, Conquered, Loving the Journey, Lifelong Teacher, Implementing Change, The Unseen, Letting Go and Direct Connection. I especially liked that the title of the poem was not given until the end so that the work could not be prejudged by it.
Marala Scott has a way with words, and she shows her skills here. I am indeed grateful that NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing let me read an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review. All opinions here are my own. The book will be available to the public on 4/2/19.
Ms. Scott wants our journey through life, the good times, the hard and challenging times, to be all put into the framework of being grateful for the multitude of things we have been given, and continue to receive and have available to us each day if we but notice them. Of course, this isn't a new idea, and yes, many others have told us the same thing. But this author backs up her opinion by sharing beautiful, personal poetry with us.
There are so many poems that touched me within this book; among them A Painter's Canvas, Those Little Gifts, Inside the Storm, The Reward, Reframe the Picture, Conquered, Loving the Journey, Lifelong Teacher, Implementing Change, The Unseen, Letting Go and Direct Connection. I especially liked that the title of the poem was not given until the end so that the work could not be prejudged by it.
Marala Scott has a way with words, and she shows her skills here. I am indeed grateful that NetGalley and Andrews McMeel Publishing let me read an ARC in exchange for an unbiased review. All opinions here are my own. The book will be available to the public on 4/2/19.
February 28, 2019
The poems were amazing and relavent to every day life experiences. It definitely has the theme of remaining grateful throughout your life, regardless of circumstance. It’s something you want to read more than once!
March 19, 2019
The premise of this book is very appealing: an inspiration and motivation to live and think positively. To see what you can be grateful for, instead of only seeing the obstacles and the wrong. That's something I, like many others, struggle with every day, and I always appreciate anything that helps me keep my thoughts positive and optimist, instead of figuratively dying in my dark ways of thinking.
This poetry book sounded like one that would inspire me to a positive attitude, but at the end, all I felt was bored. These poems does have a meaning and purpose I appreciate, but they are way too vague for me to feel engaged. To feel...anything. They are more like a lecture on what you should do and feel, and not how you should do it... they don't show to you the beauty in life, in the little things. They merely state there is, and that's it. They lack depth, and they don't deal with anything concrete. While reading them, I didn't feel like there's a person, or some stories behind them.
These poems are nicely written little things, in a nicely coated package, with a bow on it, that you put on the shelf and never again step closer to - you simply know it's there and don't think about them any deeper than acknowledging the nice wrapping paper.
This poetry book sounded like one that would inspire me to a positive attitude, but at the end, all I felt was bored. These poems does have a meaning and purpose I appreciate, but they are way too vague for me to feel engaged. To feel...anything. They are more like a lecture on what you should do and feel, and not how you should do it... they don't show to you the beauty in life, in the little things. They merely state there is, and that's it. They lack depth, and they don't deal with anything concrete. While reading them, I didn't feel like there's a person, or some stories behind them.
These poems are nicely written little things, in a nicely coated package, with a bow on it, that you put on the shelf and never again step closer to - you simply know it's there and don't think about them any deeper than acknowledging the nice wrapping paper.
March 30, 2019
With so much negativity in the world, this work of poetry and mostly prose really seems to combat it. Each poem brought about a pondering of sorts in regards to things I'd long forgotten or never considered. I'm guilty of missing many of the "moments" Ms. Scott referenced, which brought me to tears when I read the poems about bullying, death, relationships and empowerment. I should have appreciated or let my family, friends or even strangers feel my acknowledgment of their time and kindness. Moving forward I will be more aware and find the good in negative situations too. With Gratitude caused a self-reflection and introspection. I recommend With Gratitude for readers that want to follow their thought process of what each poem by the inspirational Marala Scott means although the poetry lends room for one's interpretation. The cover is eye-catching!
March 26, 2019
If the connection isn’t made to the depth of the poetry that is the depth we lack to having appreciation. The book speaks of having gratitude to painful losses in relationships and through death. It speaks to how we should heal and find the strength of what there was and use it to our advantage. The poems strike a cord to what I’d forgotten. The thoughts are shared delicately.
March 26, 2019
This book changed my perspective on life. Being 145 days sober... I can relate to many of these poems as my life has been a roller coaster and has finally began to stabilize. I love the depth of these poems and am grateful to have read this.
March 29, 2019
Possibilities come from believing nothing is impossible.
There is a rhythm to lifeand a rhythm to you.
Learn to understand it.
Inconceivable, what you can do.
People continue to love youregardless of what you do.
Be open to offering forgiveness
When the trial doesn't belong to you.
Locked inside my emotional prison,I thought I was safe
merely existing,
no longer living,
isolated with fear
until I released it.
I used to believe I needed others to believe in my dream. Then I realized I was the only one who needed to see it.
March 20, 2019
This collection of poetry and prose caused me to reflect on situations throughout my life that were teachable moments, but in those moments and at those times I didn’t seek the positive. The poems are all relevant in some form and the way the author put the titles at the end allowed me to feel what that particular piece meant to me. The poetry has a much deeper meaning than what you may initially think. I am definitely more grateful for difficult experiences and things people have taught or done for me after reading With Gratitude. You feel the author’s emotions and intent.
March 21, 2019
Favorite poem Avalanche! Love that these poems have a deeper meaning than what you think if you read it quickly. Like it says, meditate on them and you will discover the true intent. I look forward to more from Marala Scott! I will be more present so I can have gratitude for these types of blessings.
March 22, 2019
The poems are powerfully, impactful, and lend a strong connection to things we easily and thoughtlessly overlook. Things that would improve our life if acted upon.
March 31, 2019
The poetry in this book was really powerful and inspiring. Definitely my new daily read!
March 1, 2019
This book is amazing! It really emphasizes the need for gratitude as a tool for happiness. I definitely recommend this for anyone looking to improve their lives.
March 1, 2019
I enjoyed the collection of thought-provoking poems. I appreciated the topics, the arrangement was unique, and what a creative title! We all need gratitude in our lives and to be able to recognize the good around us. I recommended this book!
March 3, 2019
Cute short little poetry book. The poems were clear, concise and to the point. No interpretation needed. It lacked a little depth.
April 3, 2019
This book "With Gratitude" should be in every home. From the cover design to the opening sentence, Marala Scott invites us in a loving way to take a moment for us to reflect on the beauty and meaning that surrounds us in every day life.
When I turn the pages of "With Gratitude", I can't help but sense Marala not only giving us a deeper insight into each poetic expression, but also teaching and telling us to slow down, appreciating the simplicity of the words, and the deeper meaning.
I respect so much that Marala is not about tackling word volume on the page, but instead focuses on bringing out the 'volume of meaning' in each word on the page...just as it is.
Each poem and prose definitely has more depth than what meets the initial eye. Take on the urge to read fast. Instead, slow down, absorb, reflect, and love yourself in the process.
This book is a welcome change....a literary hug. Highly Recommended!
When I turn the pages of "With Gratitude", I can't help but sense Marala not only giving us a deeper insight into each poetic expression, but also teaching and telling us to slow down, appreciating the simplicity of the words, and the deeper meaning.
I respect so much that Marala is not about tackling word volume on the page, but instead focuses on bringing out the 'volume of meaning' in each word on the page...just as it is.
Each poem and prose definitely has more depth than what meets the initial eye. Take on the urge to read fast. Instead, slow down, absorb, reflect, and love yourself in the process.
This book is a welcome change....a literary hug. Highly Recommended!
March 1, 2019
With Gratitude is an incredible book of poetry and prose. Definitely worth the read! I suggest reading in a quiet/peaceful space so you can reflect on the poems and how they apply to your life. With Gratitude highlights so many things to be thankful for!
April 8, 2019
[Thank you to NetGalley for the ebook in exchange for an honest review.]
Book 5 for April (Poetry Month)
I picked up this book because I thought that the cover was very eye-catching and overall nicely done. I also read the description and thought that the book would be filled with a decent selection of poetry. Overall, I enjoyed this collection of poetry. There were a lot of poems that I saved in my phone because I connected with them or them made me think about something in my own life. Some of the poems were simpler than others and there were some that were shorter in nature. Some people have said that the poems seemed to be overall very simple in nature and I think that is what made the collection so powerful. The author told you her feelings without adding unnecessary words or phrases. The longest poems in the collection were about a page long. The part of the poem that I thought was very clever was the fact that the title of the poem came at the end of the poem and tied into the overall poem. The title felt like a needed line in the poem.
I would recommend this book of poems to anyone trying to find something good in their life or who just needs to read something more uplifting.
Quotes/Poems I saved:
I used to believe I needed others to believe in my dream.
Then I realized I was the only one who needed to see it.
Possibilities come from believing nothing is impossible. I can.
You have the opportunity to revive someone who is barley here, lost in a repetitive motion, unsure of how to change, void of reasons to try. Their world has become unbearable until you give them what you were gifted. Hope.
You can find things to be angry about in any situations, and you can see things to be appreciative of in them too. Reframe the Picture
Dream until it no longer feels, looks, sounds, or smells, like a dream.
Book 5 for April (Poetry Month)
I picked up this book because I thought that the cover was very eye-catching and overall nicely done. I also read the description and thought that the book would be filled with a decent selection of poetry. Overall, I enjoyed this collection of poetry. There were a lot of poems that I saved in my phone because I connected with them or them made me think about something in my own life. Some of the poems were simpler than others and there were some that were shorter in nature. Some people have said that the poems seemed to be overall very simple in nature and I think that is what made the collection so powerful. The author told you her feelings without adding unnecessary words or phrases. The longest poems in the collection were about a page long. The part of the poem that I thought was very clever was the fact that the title of the poem came at the end of the poem and tied into the overall poem. The title felt like a needed line in the poem.
I would recommend this book of poems to anyone trying to find something good in their life or who just needs to read something more uplifting.
Quotes/Poems I saved:
I used to believe I needed others to believe in my dream.
Then I realized I was the only one who needed to see it.
Possibilities come from believing nothing is impossible. I can.
You have the opportunity to revive someone who is barley here, lost in a repetitive motion, unsure of how to change, void of reasons to try. Their world has become unbearable until you give them what you were gifted. Hope.
You can find things to be angry about in any situations, and you can see things to be appreciative of in them too. Reframe the Picture
Dream until it no longer feels, looks, sounds, or smells, like a dream.
April 14, 2019
This book is a beautiful reminder of how powerful your mind is and how greatly you affect the world when in a state of gratitude. Each poem is nourishment and their titles summarize the action to manifest. There is undeniable intention in her writing that can’t help but trigger your state of being when you allow it. I’m a new fan of Ms. Scott! She is truly a gifted writer and powerful force of positivity!!!
April 15, 2019
There is nothing more refreshing than reading motivational poems to help you start and finish your day. This book is a pleasant read.
March 21, 2019
I wouldn't typically think about addiction, abuse, failed relationships, divorce, bullying, racism, and negative situations as leaving one with any feeling of gratitude, but the positive perspective the author, Marala Scott shares, changed mine ... for the better. There are reasons to be grateful for the things we experience as opposed to finding the negative aspect and letting it choke us with toxicity. People look for depth in poetry, but the necessary reminders are essential to reach that depth. For those who dive deeper, Marala takes us there with a streamlined approach and clarity. I had many favorites that resonated with me, Reality, Contributors, and Breaking the Cycle are just a few. I enjoy reading With Gratitude and look forward to reading more from this author.
April 2, 2019
This book is a must read. No matter the circumstances this book will touch your soul. The meanings behind these beautiful poems come with a balance of god derived power. Each poem emphasizes something much greater. You will find it easy to connect this book with your personal life, and help balance yourself.
April 3, 2019
With Gratitude is a great book to enhance your spiritual beliefs and your daily journey. This is not a must read, this is a must need book. Carry this book with you and break it out often, your life will be greatly enriched.
Steve Nelson
Steve Nelson
April 1, 2019
Most people overlook the basics of things we should have gratitude for, myself included. This is an example of that and a reminder. People say they appreciate others, acts of kindness but the author reminds us to consider whether we really see it? Heartfelt and thought-provoking. One of my favorites is, “You Cannot Remove Who I Am”
April 3, 2019
What a beautiful book • So many amazing messages • I look forward to reading one each day and sharing with my friends
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews