Gratitude

Gratitude is the expression of appreciation for what one has; being thankful. The practice of gratitude promotes inner peace, happiness, and contentment when practiced consistently. We can be grateful for all things such as: food, transportation, our Creator, clothes, housing, forgiveness, time, friends, education, employment, family, pets, health, love and on and on, and on…..

I think it especially important to practice gratitude during the holidays, and especially as relating to the people in our lives. Therefore I wanted to share an activity designed to help do just that. Feel free to be creative and modify this activity however you desire. The goal is to share gratitude with our family.

Everyone gets a container to decorate that will hold their messages. (paper sack, bag, tin, mason jar, whatever)

Select your paper and cut strips for everyone to use. (One inch wide may work better but whatever size works for you is the best size)

Each week, members take time to write a message identifying something they are thankful for regarding the other family members and then puts it in their container. (Using my example, I would write something for Mom, James, and Margaret). Pick a day for everyone to read their messages.

What to write?
Mom, I’m so thankful for that awesome meal you prepared Tuesday night. Mom, I’m so thankful for the time we spent together Friday night.
James, thanks for helping me work on the car Saturday.
Margaret, thanks for cheering me up Monday when I was frustrated with work.

Practice the activity for several weeks at a time. You could start at Thanksgiving and continue through New Years. Have fun!!