When my son, who is now 22, was in preschool, he decorated a coffee tin for Thanksgiving. Inside, everyone who gathered with us for Thanksgiving Day was to write a message about what they were thankful for. I requested everyone sign their card and after I dated them. This Thanksgiving with be the 19th year of that tradition.
It is so fun to read what people were thankful for each year; how the kids’ changed their outlooks; who was with us each year; how our blessings have been built upon. Some years were challenging, some were uplifting. But always, ALWAYS, there was something for which to be grateful.
We no longer use the tin, but I gather the slips and put them in an album for all to enjoy. While you might not have a tin, or even take the time to write down your blessings, I challenge you to take the time to reflect on what you have. While we often take the basics for granted, food, shelter, clothing, there are those across the world who would love those necessities. There are are some who have no living family, but often family is who we love and choose. We often take our health for granted, until we are suffering. All of these are gifts of which we can give thanks.
To take it one step further, share your thanks with others. I plan on thanking my sister in law for cooking; my husband for taking me to warmer weather; my mother in law for letting us stay with her; my children for the joy they bring me….
So as you prepare for the Thanksgiving feast, reflect on your family, friends and food. Recognize them as blessings!
May your path to Thanksgiving, be full of thankful reflections!