Thanks and Gratitude

by Kris Pitcher

It's a great time to think about thanks and gratitude in our lives. As we approach the U.S. holiday season, beginning with Thanksgiving we should take time to reflect on all the riches we have in our lives.

Measured in different ways by each of us, regardless of our socio-economic situation...we have a lot to be grateful for. We have much to be thankful for.

While holidays can be a stressful time for many people as they prepare to spend time with relatives it's a good time to let grievances go and move relationships forward. It's a good time to relax about your way being the only way. It's a good time to not worry about how the napkins are folded.

This is the time of year we should want what we have rather than having what we want. Don't get me wrong, I want you to get out there and stoke the economy with all your holiday shopping...but at the same time, take stock of what you have.

Take a moment to tell the people around you why they are important to you, how much they mean in your life, and why you value their friendship. Check on your neighbor who doesn't have any visitors, and take a plate to the lady who always looks out her window.

Thanks and gratitude come in many forms, shapes and sizes. Find gratitude for yourself and for your body. Treat yourself with the compassion you deserve. Take care of who you are. Give thanks.

This is a wonderful time of year. We seem to get pulled so far from what's important over the year. This is a time to slow down, be with people we love, reflect on our values...and give thanks and gratitude.