Are You Embracing Thanksgiving Every Day?

One of the best feelings of Thanksgiving is the feeling of love and community.  This is the one holiday that truly brings people together through gratitude. Whether it’s a big family dinner, a gathering of friends, or even a chance to extend kindness to those in need; the holiday fosters a sense of community. In a world that often feels divided, especially with the recent presidential campaign and elections here in the United States, the act of sharing a meal, donating food to the under-served and expressing gratitude can certainly bridge gaps and strengthen bonds with family, friends and neighbors.

In today’s world, it’s easy to become absorbed in the daily hustle. We’re often preoccupied with achieving more, buying more, and striving for the next milestone. Yet, Thanksgiving invites us to slow down and take a beat on our perspective, reminding us that gratitude is not just a fleeting emotion but a powerful practice that can enhance our lives in profound ways. In its essence, Thanksgiving is not just about the turkey, the stuffing, or even the pumpkin pie. It's about pausing amidst the busyness of life to recognize the things—big and small—that we are thankful for.

We should pause each and every day and practice being thankful.  This exercise of gratitude can—and should—extend far beyond the holiday season. Research shows that regularly practicing gratitude can have tangible benefits on both our mental and physical health. People who keep a gratitude journal or take time to reflect on what they are thankful for tend to experience lower levels of stress, better sleep, and an overall sense of well-being. Making gratitude a daily habit can have lasting effects on our relationships, our happiness, and our overall outlook on life. It’s not just about listing things we’re thankful for but actively nurturing a mindset that sees the good in people, situations, and circumstances, even in difficult times.  The act of being thankful helps shift our focus from what we lack to what we have, promoting contentment and a greater sense of happiness.

Life is full of challenges, but gratitude helps us navigate them with resilience. When we approach life with a sense of thankfulness, we open ourselves to seeing opportunities, finding joy in the present, and building deeper connections with others. 

 From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving, not just for the holiday but for each and every single day of the year!