My historian husband commented that possibly some of the iconic Thanksgiving dinner story was a myth. After all, there were no journalists back then. Historians aren’t certain there was even a turkey on the table. He suggested we should be grateful every day. Why just annually on one day?
A coach and friend, Amy Rosner, PhD, published a journal to record daily thoughts of gratitude and their origins. According to Rosner, if you show gratitude daily and write it down, it can be life-changing.
I see a trend here. Why not celebrate what we are thankful for every day, and even detail the origins of our gratitude?
Having a barrage of challenges since Roger and I relocated, I agree. Why not single out what makes us thankful and grateful? Why not acknowledge what makes our humanity noteworthy? Thinking positively can’t hurt, since focusing on good things can channel our thoughts to be more positive.
Start the gratitude with being thankful to be alive. So many people face painful challenges, both physically and emotionally.
I am in good health, work out at a gym regularly (and laugh when the receptionist at the gym wishes me “an enjoyable workout” every time) Does anyone ever really enjoy a workout? Again, I’m grateful to be capable of working out.
When asked what she liked best about Thanksgiving, my friend Tracy said she preferred Thanksgiving to Christmas because, “Thanksgiving is about sharing dinner with people-it’s about the people, but Christmas is about the presents.”
My mom taught me to write a note or say “Thank you,” when given a gift. Life is a present. When I thank someone for something they’ve done I appreciated, my reward is their sincere smile. If It makes their day, thanksgiving can be every day!
Try it! It works!
Warmest regards and happy holidays,
Shelley Sommers
Getting closer to launching A Vision of Home where Will and Louisa tackle the challenges of starting a new life together. See shelleysommers.com for updates. The cover is almost ready!
Want to sample the prequel, Love at First Sight, that shares how Louisa’s parents met? If you haven’t already signed up on my home page, you can submit your email and receive a free link to the first five chapters of the book. (The full book arrives in early 2024.) If you like what you read, catch up now with Books 1 and 2, Louisa’s Passion and Will’s Secret on Amazon. Please share with a friend! Thank you! I am grateful for your support!