"Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." - Ephesians 5:19-20
It is that time of the year again. We are reminded to express gratitude. I am big on the importance of gratitude and try to express it daily. This time of year reminds me of how lucky I am.
I am thankful for the opportunity I had to work at Martin Park, Inc. I was a development coordinator at Martin Park. The nonprofit has three locations in an underserved, drug and gang-infested neighborhood. Martin Park, Inc. provides a safe place for kids. I am no longer working there as I found out that fundraising was not my gift. I am good at building relationships and connecting with others, but I have difficulty making the ask. It was a tough decision to leave as I love the parks and the program. I will continue to support financially and volunteer to participate in such an amazing program. If you want to learn more about this program, I encourage you to visit www.martinpark.org.
I grew up in an upper-middle-class family and never had to worry about where my next meal would come from, whether my home was safe, or whether my parents were high on drugs. I am thankful for what I learned in that experience. Kids are resilient, and it matters that adults care. Most importantly, I learned how good my childhood was. I was safe, fed, and had new clothes. I took my childhood for granted.
Every year, I look forward to Thanksgiving. However, it has changed over the years. Growing up, I spent most Thanksgivings with my family. Usually, we went to my grandparents' home. My grandma was an excellent cook and made a wonderful meal. She used good china and silver utensils that had to be polished before use. She spent hours making that day special. We would eat around 1 p.m. We sat around the dining room table, talked, laughed, and enjoyed our food. In the evening, we would again sit around the table and have turkey sandwiches (that was actually my favorite part of the day!)
Now, most of my family has passed, and holidays are different. I am thankful for my friends who have made me feel like family. I am usually with one of them for Thanksgiving. There are some Thanksgivings that I am alone, and I have learned to enjoy it. I typically go to the movies, have a pre-bought dinner that I can enjoy, and spend time doing things I enjoy, such as blogging, watching movies, reading, or practicing the piano!
I am thankful for all God has done: his protection, love, and even His discipline. I am grateful for my friends, church, and busy life.
It is essential that we express gratitude throughout the year, and below are some ways to do just that:
Personal Practices
Keep a Gratitude Journal
Write down three things you’re grateful for each day. This helps focus on the positives and builds a habit of thankfulness.
Say "Thank You" More Often
Verbally express gratitude to others for their actions, kindness, or presence.
Pray or Meditate
Reflect on your blessings through prayer or meditation, thanking a higher power or the universe for what you have.
Appreciate the Small Things
Pause to notice and be thankful for little joys, like a sunny day, a smile, or a good cup of coffee.
Relationships
Write Thank-You Notes
Send handwritten notes to people who have made a difference in your life. It's a timeless and heartfelt gesture.
Spend Quality Time
Show gratitude by being present and attentive to your loved ones.
Compliment Others
Share genuine compliments to uplift and show appreciation for someone’s efforts or qualities.
Surprise Someone with Kindness
Bring a small gift, bake cookies, or do something thoughtful to show your appreciation.
Community & Service
Volunteer
Give your time and energy to help others in need as a way of giving back.
Pay It Forward
Perform random acts of kindness, like buying coffee for the person behind you or leaving an encouraging note for a stranger.
Express Gratitude Publicly
Share your thanks on social media or in a group setting to highlight people who’ve made an impact.
Donate to a Cause
Contribute to charities or organizations that align with your values in gratitude for the blessings you’ve received.
Workplace
Recognize Colleagues
Acknowledge coworkers' efforts with a thank-you email, shout-out, or small token of appreciation.
Celebrate Team Success
Show gratitude for collaboration and teamwork by organizing a small celebration or recognition event.
Self-Compassion
Practice Gratitude Toward Yourself
Acknowledge your achievements and be kind to yourself for the effort you’ve put into your life.
Create Gratitude Rituals
Start or end your day with a moment of gratitude, reflecting on what went well or what you're looking forward to.
Gratitude doesn’t have to be grand—it’s the sincerity and consistency that count.
Have a Happy Thanksgiving!
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