—Melodie Beattie

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, I would like to reflect on what gratitude really means.   Everywhere I turn, the focus or media noise has been on our many floating disappointments.   From the economic failures of our markets and our bank accounts to our unfulfilling or debilitating jobs, and our lives filled with endless lists of needs.

Let’s take a moment to check in with ourselves.  Close your eyes and take a deep breath.  How deeply can you breathe?  Some people have a hard time sustaining one deep breath, so enjoy a few.   Center your mind on a person in your life whose smile you love to see the most.  You just can’t get enough of their smile.  Do you see it in your mind?  Does it make you smile too?

While in this peaceful state, take a moment to run through your loved ones’ faces.  See each person who warms your heart and keeps it beating; the people you are here to enjoy and those you would sacrifice everything for.    When each person comes into your mind, pause, and say a silent “Thank You” for them being in your life and bringing you constant joy.  Thank them for the experiences you have shared and for the future ones to come.  If you are fortunate enough to see them in your daily life, give them a deeper and longer hug than you usually do.  They will feel your love and it will warm their heart too. If you are worlds apart, send them a note and make their day.

Enjoy each day’s present as it was intended.  As if you are opening a new surprise gift each day.  Now check in with yourself again.  What economic crisis?

Many warm thanks to you for reading.

Until next time,

Boni