THANKSGIVING

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

Life is about transition, learning, growing, embracing the unknown and coming to understand there is so much more to discover. I am thankful this year has given me the most glorious opportunity to reach deep inside and contemplate who I really am. I am grateful that in a period of positive change, I am learning to recognize the importance of stillness, of mindful quietness. I am seeing the futility and folly in frenetically trying to convince others of a certain view point, and it has lessened my need to always be right. In doing so, I am “hearing” the most amazing, eye-opening things. This is helping me more fully embrace the person I am and was always meant to be. It’s a revelation of sorts, and that clarity illuminates my path, ensuring a sense of thoughtfulness in actions. It also has given me a moment to reflect on thoughtlessness. It is with gratitude I realize the art of mindfulness to help balance my actions and reactions. And that is where growth occurs, for me anyway, the realization of the effects of the good or bad. And more so, the desire to put into action the good and positive things that strengthen me and as a result, help those I encounter every day.

We all have the ability to be an agent of change. Open minds and open hearts are game-changers. Give yourself a few moments of reflection this holiday weekend and see where your thoughts might take you. Don’t let self-doubt, fear of the unknown or change rule and define you. Break those chains. There is a euphoric feeling in the freedom of what you will become. But it is up to us, as individuals, to feel that freedom. It’s a gift we receive from ourselves and get to share with others... That is what changes the game.

On this Thanksgiving Day, I am grateful, not just today, but every day, for all those in my life and for life itself. It’s a grand journey and I am beyond fortunate. I am excited and eager for tomorrow and all the tomorrows after that. The unknown is enlivening me and the promise of challenge and opportunity inspires a certain youthful creativity. I am almost speechless at such abundance to embrace and be thankful for. I wish the same for each of you.

“Silent gratitude isn’t very much use to anyone.” ~ Gertrude Stein