This week we ironically take a break from focusing on food in the midst of the holiday most known for it. The other theme of this holiday is, of course, meditating on and expressing what it is we are thankful for. While some people make a daily practice of recognizing that for which they are grateful, others may roll their eyes at the thought. Sometimes being grateful seems like something we should do considering “everything we have.” We look outside of ourselves thinking, “at least I have a, b, and c unlike people who don’t” or “things could be worse…I really should be grateful for everything I have.” We may even feel guilt for not being “as grateful as I should be.” In doing this, we forget that gratitude is a matter of perspective. We’ve all heard of the person who, from material standards, has little but feels like the richest person in the world, or the person with “everything” who feels they have nothing. Giving thanks does not need to be forced. It is also not something that needs to be the result of comparison. Allow yourself to recognize that which brings you true joy, a feeling of deep satisfaction, and a feeling of comfort.
Feel free to share what it is you’re sincerely grateful for in the comments below. Is it your bond with a pet? The way it feels to slide your feet into your cozy slippers? The way your favorite television show makes you laugh? Your home? Your job? The way your child puts their hand in yours? Or that you had a glimpse of feeling today that you really like who you are?
For those of you who enjoy crafts, click here for a fun way to allow what you are grateful for to change with you. Write what brings you joy and comfort in this moment, and then change as necessary. This can be a project to do with kids, too, while discussing not only what we’re grateful for, but what gratitude really means.
