Thanksgiving is a special time of year, a reminder to pause and reflect on all that we are grateful for. But why limit this sense of gratitude to just one day? The spirit of Thanksgiving is centered around appreciation and kindness that can be woven into our daily lives.
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to get so wrapped up in our routines and responsibilities that we become almost invisible to each other. We move from task to task, often with laser-like focus, barely noticing the people around us. We may forget to say “hello” to the person we see on our walks or to offer a quick smile to the grocery clerk. These small gestures may seem insignificant, but they can lift someone’s spirits—and ours.
Practicing daily gratitude doesn’t require grand gestures. Often, it’s about those small, meaningful interactions that can make all the difference. A warm “thank you” to someone who goes out of their way, a moment to listen to a friend who needs support, or a few words of encouragement to a colleague who’s had a tough day—these acts of kindness create ripples.
“Let It Be” by the Beatles is a song of surrender and acceptance of the now. It was one of my dearest friend’s who passed away, favorites. It releases the need to know how everything will turn out and connects us to hope. It is imperative to hold on to a deeper knowing that things will still be okay, even during our “hour of darkness. ”
We must keep going and focus on addressing our present feelings, even amid chaos. Our thoughts and perceptions are all we can really control. My favorite lyrics from the song are: ” And when the night is cloudy, there is still a light that shines on me, shine until tomorrow, let it be.”
As the Thanksgiving season draws near, consider how you might carry this spirit beyond November. Perhaps it’s as simple as starting each day by being grateful for a new day, showing kindness to others, and ending it by reflecting on a few things you’re thankful for. When we make these practices part of our routine, the ripple effect will be there, even though we can’t always see it.
All of us at Breathing Spaces are grateful for you and wish you and yours a warm Thanksgiving.
Hugs,
Cyndi