Gobble Up Gratitude

It is not joy that makes us grateful.

It is gratitude that makes us joyful.

David Steindl-Rast

Last night my husband and I noticed a change in the air, a sort of frenetic energy. Maybe some of it has to do with the Cave Fire threatening our community but this mood does seem to overshadow the holiday season year after year.

With only 24-28 hours before Thanksgiving dinner kickoff I notice a distinct shortage of Hallmark cheer. I see friends hitting the road, bracing themselves for holiday traffic. I see others at the grocery store, braving the masses for a last minute menu item. Once home, how many of us are pouring a supersized glass of wine in preparation to make home and children presentable, a feast that is fabulous and bracing ourselves for an evening of crackpot family dynamics?

Sometimes we forget that this is the time specially earmarked for giving thanks. Personally, I am feeling exceptionally thankful. My family had a 9-1-1 emergency this last week, a blatant reminder of what is fundamentally important. I thank the heavens above that my family is healthy and together, for the injury could have easily taken a turn for the worse and this Thanksgiving would have looked quite different.

Today I encourage you to count your blessings. Studies show that by expressing gratitude, happiness increases by 25%. Gratitude is the gateway to joy and the secret to ensuring that you enjoy this Thanksgiving.

I challenge you to take 5 minutes for yourself. Start with writing 3 things you are thankful for, or go on a roll and write 30. Think about the people, places and things that fill your heart and life with comfort and joy. I’ll start…

• I’m thankful my husband is ok and not spending this Thanksgiving in the hospital…
• I’m thankful to the friends who answered their phones in the middle of the night and were willing to get out of bed and help…
• I’m thankful for my children, even if they have been testing my sanity and pushing my buttons this last week…
• I’m thankful for my good health and the roof over my head…

See, it’s hard to stop at just 3! A little extra joy is my way of saying “Thank You” to you, my community, this holiday and it takes less than 5 minutes. Happy Thanksgiving!