Collards, fried chicken, ham, yams, apple pie, sweet potato pie, chocolate cake……makes your mouth water just thinking about the tasty treats of the holidays.
It’s something about Thanksgiving that causes so many of us to take a moment to pause, and simply give thanks. Yet, all that has been occurring in our ever changing world has gripped us, and commanded us to pay very close attention to the many things we have to be THANKFUL for. Typically, we move throughout our day sometimes without even realizing what may be taking for granted unintentionally; is something others would be jumping with joy over. For example, having a cold glass of water is something we consume daily……nothing special about it, right? Just think, there are countries where there is not clean water systems so many perish for a lack of water. Most of us may not have every thing we want but we certainly have exactly what we need. On the other hand, if you watch the news you will clearly see there are countries where people do not have their basic needs met. I know those same people would be so grateful if they had a portion of the basic things we have. I think it’s important sometimes just to think about all the things you have to be thankful for. Please let me list a few………family, friends, food, a warm bed, life, mentors/those that pour into your life, resources, beauty of nature……….
Yes, if you stopped for just a few moments you probably could list more things that you never imagined that you are TRULY THANKFUL FOR. I mentioned in a past blog, about how rewarding a gratitude journal can be for anyone who is willing to begin one. A gratitude journal causes you to have gratitude for even the smallest things we naturally overlook.
So as you embark upon this holiday season, rejoice in knowing even if you don’t have every thing you want……. you have so much to be thankful for. Even if you have had hard times, struggles, disappointments, and more trials than you choose to discuss……. there is still something to be thankful for. Focusing on what you are thankful for gradually changes your outlook on life, and even the way you view others.
So, start your day and end your day with thinking of what you have to grateful for. I bet you will be amazed in what you have to celebrate, and be thankful for. Enjoy the journey of living with a grateful heart.