As the last of the burnt red, orange, and yellow leaves fall from the trees and the days grow shorter, we come together with family, friends, and loved ones for Thanksgiving. It is such a special time for connection, love, and appreciation. I am reminded of the many facets of gratitude one experiences throughout their life; some obvious and universal, and others that require introspection, grace, and acceptance.
The human experience is often filled with moments of absolute hardship, loss, and pain. However, if you take some intentional time and emotional space to reflect on and zoom out every now and then, the attitude and perspective on these difficult times in can be poignantly reframed and repurposed. It is in these tender moments one comes to the realization that life is replete with gifts, in all sorts of shapes and forms; even if they initially manifest as hurt and despair, and even if bittersweet.
So let us slow down, pause, and take a moment to acknowledge all the beauty and gifts that surround us and that are within us. Gratitude can exist amongst the gamut of our emotions, from sadness and joy to grief and love. We can create space for more than one feeling to be experienced at the same time, even if they are opposing or incongruent.
How do you invite gratitude into your life and relationships?
Here are a few quotes and practices to get you thinking and feeling…
- Nitya Prakash “I’m just thankful for the people that never left me and equally thankful for those who did.”
- Maya Angelou “This is a wonderful day. I have never seen this one before.”
- Vietnamese Proverb “When eating fruit, remember the one who planted the tree.”
- Robert Brault “Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.”
- Brené Brown “What separates privilege from entitlement is gratitude.”
- Robert Braathe “Gratitude and attitude are not challenges; they are choices.”
- Thornton Wilder “The highest tribute to the dead is not grief but gratitude.”
Ways to Practice Gratitude
- Write in a journal: Document what you’re grateful for daily.
- Send thank you notes: Express your appreciation to those who have made a difference in your life.
- Create a gratitude jar: Write down things you’re grateful for and place them in a jar. Read them when you need a reminder.
- Be mindful: Pay attention to the present and appreciate the small moments.
- Pray: Offer gratitude in your prayers.
- Meditate: Reflect on your blessings through meditation.
