penandpatience

WRITERS WORDS: “As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words but to live by them.” – John F. Kennedy

2022 NOVEMBER MONTHLY MUSING

THANKSGIVING –   GOBBLE ALONG WITH ME!

            It’s that time again-November, the month we celebrate Thanksgiving. A time when many get together with family, friends, and neighbors to enjoy turkey dinners, relaxation, and tune in to a favorite football game. And yes, some family members visit shopping centers for Black Friday sales, although in recent years, the sales have been advertised well before Thanksgiving. However, did you know that November is also National Gratitude Month?

National Gratitude Month is the holiday where we can all gather and share our gratitude to the world.  Basically, gratitude month’s emphasis is putting attention toward the positive versus the negative.

Ralph Waldo Emerson advises: “Cultivate the habit of being grateful for every good thing that comes to you, and to give thanks continuously, and because all things have contributed to your advancement, you should include all things in your gratitude.”

I muse…2022 has been a difficult year for many countries, people, and families. Many have experienced heartbreaking losses through climate change turmoil, human brutality due to overseas conflicts threatening world freedoms. Hurricanes and fires have devastated people in our country and abroad leaving many folks deceased, homeless, and feeling helpless. And, for many Americans (Canadians also celebrate Thanksgiving) it’s difficult to envision a happy Thanksgiving celebration with limited resources and loss.

But then, gratitude, focusing on positive versus negative and, recalling memories of past traditions, small enjoyments and aiding others are optimistic perspectives.  I often recall my deceased Mom’s encouraging stance. Her credo was something good will come from a bad experience and, eventually, the sun will shine again.

A few positive thoughts for this year 2022: take time out to trot at the local Turkey Trot. Watch the traditional Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and our current U.S. President’s annual turkey pardon. Attend religious observances of choice and set aside time to give thanks for personal blessings. Volunteer your time and share your special skills to assist others in having a positive Thanksgiving experience.

“I am grateful for what I am and have. My Thanksgiving is perpetual.” – Henry David Thoreau

MAY YOU AND YOURS HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Don’t be a turkey. Don’t drink and drive