Thanksgiving is a gathering time – families come together, tables are filled with food and stories of past holidays are shared. It’s a season steeped in gratitude, yet for some, it can bring a mixture of emotions. Perhaps there’s an empty seat at the table this year, or maybe the busyness of life makes it hard to pause and truly feel thankful.
Some eat alone. Gratitude, however, doesn’t need perfect circumstances to thrive. In fact, it flourishes in more difficult and even hostile times.
Thanksgiving reminds us that thankfulness is a choice, a deliberate focus on the good in our lives – even when things are less than ideal. Dark clouds and sometimes tears contribute to fostering an attitude that nourishes our spirits and the hearts of those with whom we share our lives. This phrase of ‘creating space.
..’ is used in many aspects of life.
In this sense, it brings us to focus momentarily on what is filling our thoughts at the time. This event does bring the busyness of preparing meals, hosting guests, and traveling, which can overshadow the quieter moments of thankfulness. This year, consider carving out a space to reflect on gratitude.
Pause Before the Meal: Invite everyone to share something they’re thankful for before eating. It could be as simple as a sunny day or as profound as overcoming a personal challenge. If alone – I encourage you to call a friend or voice your gratefulness out loud.
Try it! You may experience something indescribable. Consider acts o.