November Thanksgiving Narrative
Often during trying and difficult times, it is hard to decide when to be thankful. Instead of having a cup ‘½ full’, it is looked upon as ‘½ empty’. People are losing their jobs, their homes, and even a comfortable existence is withering away for some. It is difficult to be positive when so many are struggling.
Amid daily struggles and duties, an occasion for gratitude seems hard to find. These struggles are pressing financial needs, urgent family problems, personal sorrows or concerns. People may feel empty, weary, even isolated. Practicing thankfulness, even in difficult times, is one of the most powerful ways to bring about a change in one’s circumstances.
In reality, the practice of being thankful is essential to acquiring inner peace. When one can obtain this, it is easier to find much to be grateful for. It is unknown what will happen tomorrow or tonight; and the past cannot be changed. Yet there is the blessing of life itself. Even the small, seemingly trivial, moments in the day – the sight of a bird in the sky, the greening of a tree, the laugh and love of a child, a call from a friend or the end of the day at home with one’s family, can be something to add to one’s assets. It is in the small moments, as much as in the dramatic crises in life that sustains people and gives courage to face any struggle.
Thankfulness takes practice. It is a quality that needs to be modeled so that children can learn and see how to improve their lives. List everything that is appreciated in life; one’s family, relationships, strengths and skills, etc. Be sure to find something to be thankful for in respect to what is distressing right now.
At the end of every day, walk backward and think of all that can be appreciated from the day. Spirits can be lifted when even the smallest things can be appreciated. Children depend on adults in their lives to be role models who display and share thankfulness. Attempt it in life. It can only benefit those that try…
Roxanne Shevlin
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