There is no doubt about it, the year 2020 has been difficult for many of us: COVID, the economy, racial tensions, learning and working remotely and the election.
This may sound crazy, but I would like to propose that we flip the switch and make a Gratitude List. Here are some thoughts on GIVING THANKS.
Family - Do you have a new appreciation for your family? Are you enjoying the found time together? Has someone in your family had a health scare? Do you feel blessed to have them in your life? Are you grateful for their love?
Friends - You may be able to see some friends but miss many others face to face. Knowing that we are all going through this together binds us. Are you pleased to still call them friends? Are you happy to still connect with some in person and other by phone or video-conferencing? Do you cherish your time together?
Food - Did we ever love food as much as we do now? Meals have taken on great importance - the ordering, shopping, preparing, cooking and eating are all bigger events in these new homebound days.
Nature- Does nature bring you daily joy? Do you appreciate the sunrises, sunsets, trees, flowers and birds. Are you out walking more, taking in the sights, enjoying the beauty of our world?
Pets- Have you adopted a new pet? Are you having fun with your existing pets? Hiking, walking, hanging out. They are thrilled to have us all home and loving us more than ever.
Time - Do you feel like you have more time than you did before? Are you more relaxed, less harried? How has your life or the lives of those around you improved because of this new reality? Have you learned something new, a language, photography, gardening, coding, artistry, a skill?
Technology - Online ordering. Books delivered remotely. Commercial-free tv. Zoom dance parties. Museum, zoos and national parks at your finger tips. And all the awesome apps for everything. Tech Rocks!
Good health- If you and your family are still enjoying good health, are you grateful?
God - HE is in charge! Despite all, consider thanking him for your blessings.
The year 2020 has certainly been challenging but it has also brought an awareness of all that needs to be appreciated.
As Kelly Clarkson so beautifully sings, “what doesn't kill you makes you stronger.” Perhaps we can hope to be singing and feeling stronger, after what we have endured this past year?!
What is on your Gratitude List this Thanksgiving? I know we all have a significant amount to complain, worry and stress about. Let me suggest making your own “Thanks-Giving” List instead- it might make you rethink things and help you find your happy place again.
Be well and stay safe.