Suzanne Marlatt Stewart
While it’s always fun to sit around the Thanksgiving dinner table in November sharing what we’re thankful for, gratitude truly can be a meaningful approach to life that creates a profound impact on you and those around you.
Gratitude is a cycle that, when supported, has a positive effect. It supports our wellbeing with long lasting results including boosting our mood, increasing our patience, and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
For too many people, however, the meaning of Thanksgiving ends with spending a few moments giving thanks at the dinner table. The true meaning of Thanksgiving, however, does not need to end after a prayer. The holiday of Thanksgiving has a wider significance. Thanksgiving is also a call to action. It is important for us to remember that the word Thanksgiving is composed of two words: thanks and giving. This Thanksgiving Day take a moment and reflect on what actions you can take in the next year to fully express the meaning of gratitude. Think of a way to free up some time each week so that you can give that time to someone in need or volunteer for a worthy cause. What would you do during that time? By giving of your time and talent you acknowledge that there is abundance in your life. Also, share with your family and friends what actions you will take in the next year to fully express the meaning of Thanksgiving. You do not have to look very far to realize how blessed we are to live in our community. There are so many opportunities to share your gifts and talents to help others.
Following are some great quotes of gratitude and abundance.
“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.”—John F. Kennedy
“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more.”—Oprah Winfrey
“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.”—William Arthur Ward
“We should certainly count our blessings, but also make our blessings count.”—Neal A. Maxwell
“Gratitude is the healthiest of all human emotions. The more you express gratitude for what you have, the more likely you will have even more to express gratitude for.”—Zig Ziglar
Ask yourself, “What am I grateful for right now?” Then allow the answer to come. Enjoy your holiday, whatever you choose to do, and may the true meaning of Thanksgiving continue in the year ahead.
“May your stuffing be tasty. May your turkey be plump, may your potatoes and gravy have nary a lump. May your yams be delicious, and your pies take the prize, and may your Thanksgiving dinner stay off your thighs.”—Unknown
Join us Nov. 23 at DesertView Performing Arts Center at 4 p.m. for another joyous experience with Rev. Dr. Jonathan Zenz. All inclusive, honoring all faiths.
Rev. Suzanne, a resident of SaddleBrooke, is an independent writer and speaker. She was ordained nondenominational, representing all faiths, and her focus is inclusivity. Email her at spiritualoccasions@outlook.com.