“Give” thanks

As we gather with family and friends tomorrow on Thanksgiving Day, let us not forget the true meaning of this beautiful holiday.  There’s a reason why it’s called Thanks-giving and not just Thanks-being.  “Being” thankful is a private, internal feeling that undoubtedly increases your levels of happiness and is often very therapeutic.  “Giving” thanks, on the other hand, is an expression of your being thankful and can often lead to even greater levels of happiness.  So, while there are many things in life that we can “be” thankful for (i.e. health, family, food, etc…), it’s the “giving” of this thanks that is most powerful.

Below is an acrostic poem that I recently wrote, which will hopefully provide you with some ideas for “giving” thanks.

T hank someone for who they are, not just what they’ve done for you.

H ear others by using not just your ears, but your heart as well.

A spire to be a “bucket filler” by sharing multiple compliments each day.

N ever repress a feeling of gratitude, it needs to be expressed.

K eep a daily gratitude journal.

S end a text or email to someone right now and simply write…I am grateful for you.

G reet everyone with a smile, which will serve as an expression of your thanks.

I nspire others to express gratitude through your example.

V alue the beauty in everyone.

I nitiate a conversation with a stranger and share your joy with them.

N ote all of your recent accomplishments and celebrate them.

Happy Thanksgiving!

With gratitude,

Mike