November and gratitude go together like turkey and stuffing, cranberries and pumpkin pie, or the Packers and Sunday afternoon! Our annual celebration of Thanksgiving Day is rooted in tradition and myth that now dates back more than 400 years. You may be aware that the President "pardons" one or more turkeys every November, but did you know that the President also issues a Thanksgiving Day Proclamation? It truly is a national, non-religious holiday of gratitude.This year, I am grateful for so much good in my life and for the thousands of moments in which I have been blessed with a kind word, a smile, a bit of humor, a hug, a letter in the mail, a beautiful sunny summer day, a beautiful sunny winter day, daylight saving time, standard time, a car that works, a home that shelters, food that nourishes, a canine companion who is my own "Velcro dog," my friends and family, and my spiritual community.Every moment spent in gratitude is a good moment, so if you are having some "bad moments," take a gratitude break. Making a list is a great start, and you'll have plenty to jot down. The first things to arise might be your present surroundings, such as a pleasant view out the window, or those things that you always tend to list which come quickly to mind. As you continue, you might ask yourself what gratitude you feel in your heart. This will deepen your gratitude because it moves you from "things" to feelings, experiences, and loved ones. These are the greatest gifts, aren't they? Contemplating gratitude of the heart may take you into remembering past Thanksgivings, loved ones who have moved on, and other meaningful moments. If there is some grief that comes along, remember that grief is "love with tears;" it's healthy and important!As you reflect on past Thanksgivings, what would you like to experience again this year, and what would you like to change? Is this the year that you challenge yourself to let go of an old tradition that just doesn't serve you? Is it time for a new tradition? Be brave! Be brave and be grateful; that's an unbeatable combination!I wish you good health, long life, and all the love your heart can hold. Happy Thanksgiving!Rev. April Kain-Breese Category: Nature's Pathways Articles
