How do we express gratitude for the gifts of the teachings we receive? We
say 'thank you', with our bow, fist in palm. But sometimes a teacher says
something to change the way we see the whole solo form; for some unknown
reason the monkeys in our mind cease to howl; or, in the midst of
the two person form, we are overcome with softness. If we're lucky, gratitude
punctuates our practice.
You might notice a bowl sitting out with the Chinese word "gratitude". This
is not a suggested donation bowl. You already pay your dues. This is for
when you have a genuine moment of thanks, to give back.