As another year nears its end, November and December are the months that families

spend the most time together. Thanksgiving and Christmas are celebrated with elaborate

dinners including all of the trimmings, as well as parties and gatherings. It’s a grand time

that celebrates fellowship, fun, and family.

   Thanksgiving is a special day when we celebrate and express gratitude for all of the

blessings we’ve received. But truth be told, to me, we should give thanks daily and

always be grateful for all of our blessings. Every moment of each day we’re afforded to

experience should be cause for celebration and something special to cherish. The fourth

Thursday of November shouldn’t be the only time to give thanks.

   Far too often, most people spend too much time complaining about what they don’t

have to fully appreciate everything they do have. Focusing on what you’re grateful for

keeps you in the present moment. It prevents you from lamenting about your past or

looking towards the future. There’s always something to be grateful for. If you’re living,

you’re breathing, and chances are you’re blessed with a reasonable portion of health and

strength. We all have so much to be grateful for! Everyone should be able to easily

identify at least ten things they’re grateful for daily. If you feel you don’t, start your daily

list by giving thanks to God for waking you up. By the end of the day, I’m positive you’ll

have more than ten things that you’re grateful for.

   Focusing on gratitude instead of lack creates a subtle shift in your thought process that

removes negativity. With dedicated practice, everywhere you turn and every thought you

think will be about something you’re grateful for. Appreciate everything--bemoan

nothing. Before long, expressing gratitude for all things, large or small, will become a

daily habit and a new way of living and seeing the world.