So often we think of November as a month of gratitude. Thankfulness is on
everyone’s lips and we culminate the month with our grandest celebration of thanks! I thought that in the spirit of gratitude I would recognize and say
thank you to the two people who deserve more than I will ever be able to
give.
My parents have been my saving grace, my steady presence, my calm in every storm. They show up in all the big ways that parents do, but mine also show up in all the small ways that mean the most. From meeting the sprinkler guy, to helping to shuttle kids all over town, to late night calls about a sick grandkid who needs to stay home from school, no matter the
circumstances, they are there. My parents are doers and helpers and huggers and their very presence makes me breathe steady and my heart calm!
There’s no way to ever put into words all they have done and all I know
they will do…
How can we all show gratitude to those people in our lives who are there no
matter what, no matter the time, the day, or the help needed, they show
up? There are so many ways to express gratitude that can change both your life and the lives of others. Simple acts like saying "thank you" or
"please” as often as possible as well as writing notes or sending texts,
can convey your appreciation quickly and without much fuss. Keeping a
gratitude journal allows you to reflect on what you're thankful for each
day. Engaging in volunteer work creates a sense of connection to something greater than yourself while also helping others. Practicing gratitude meditation enables you to contemplate the positive aspects of your life, enhancing your feelings of appreciation. Another creative method is to create a gratitude jar, where you write down things you’re thankful for and revisit them later. Embracing active gratitude means looking for things to appreciate every day, rather than just waiting for those big, special
moments. You can also express gratitude through thoughtful gifts, like
flowers or a meal, or by simply spending quality time with someone,
offering help, or returning a favor.
Let’s take this month to get ourselves in the habit of gratitude!