Greetings! ,

With the holiday of Thanksgiving already behind us, the deep meaning of the day continues for me.

I am learning that gratitude and appreciation are attitudes so important to express, not just at Thanksgiving but everyday, and as much as possible.

Often in being thankful, we go through the process of acknowledging the wonderful people, things, and places that grace our lives. Just as important are the many small things, often taken for granted.  

A friend named Liz taught me about this through the following event:

I was the last one out of a large meeting. As I was leaving the room, I saw on the floor a small leather-bound, black notebook. As I picked it up, I couldn't help but flip through the book to see what it was. Each page was beautifully handwritten, and filled with very specific and precious statements of gratitude.

"Today I am grateful for oatmeal, and friends who cook it, the postal service, and a list to start my day."

"Big towels and clean clothes, shower gel and shampoo. A body that works, for two feet and two eyes and two of everything else that should come in pairs."

What's this, and who made such a book? On the inside cover, my friend's name was written. I found her as soon as possible and gave her the book. She was so grateful, no surprise, and laughingly said, "Well, I sure do know what will be my next entry-I am so happy that you've returned this!"

Why not start a Gratitude Journal and write in it everyday? I know surprising things will come to mind.

Stephanie makes time at the end of her children's day to sit on the bed as she is tucking them in. She asks "What are you most grateful for today?" Then, in what will make a lasting treasure, she writes that special thought, creating a unique record for each child in the years to come.

Will you begin expressing your gratitudes today, or will you start tomorrow?

Debra has created a daily, end-of-the-day ritual with her husband. A few moments before bed, they speak of what they each were grateful for that day. She told me that this has been an important exercise. Often what is expressed is a surprise to the other. And it turns out that the practice is especially valuable if the day was difficult or one of them was cranky, for they have discovered concealed gifts when things haven't gone as expected.

Ironically, it is sometimes loss that awakens us to a thankfulness that goes deeper than only being grateful when things go our way.

Near-miss accidents and serious illness can be wake-up calls to the deeper realization that we are truly lucky to be alive. I have worked with many cancer patients who have told me that their health challenge was the best thing that happened to them. It revealed what was truly important. Love, joy, and awareness of the mystery of life. And appreciation for another day of living and loving.

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