Do you think about the things you are grateful for? Whether it’s family and loved ones, furry friends and a job you like, or just another day in the world, there is so much to be thankful for in our lives. However, with all of the stresses and emotions of day-to-day life, it can be hard to remember to take the time and practice gratitude. There’s no shame in it, but it can also be nice to slow down and appreciate the little things in life. That’s what World Gratitude Day is all about: taking the time to express your gratitude.
Showing a Little Love
There are plenty of little ways to express gratitude. Of course, if there are special people in your life who you’re feeling grateful for, it can be nice to take the time to show them how you feel. This can be as simple as letting them know, giving them a card or a note, or even taking the time to give them a gift. Perhaps you could pick up flowers for mom, or a milk bone for your canine friend to let them know you love them, and appreciate their presence in your life.
Practicing Gratitude For Yourself
Gratitude isn’t just about showing it to others, though. Practicing gratitude can also be about what you do on your own time, and encouraging yourself to take the time to show some gratitude for your life and what makes it great. Gratitude meditation is one way to do this– taking the time to sit down, center yourself, and focus on the feeling of thankfulness, can be great for your mental health, especially if you make it a habit.
Gratitude journaling is another option. Many people keep a gratitude journal, or just make it a point to write in their journal or diary on the regular about what makes them feel grateful. It doesn’t have to be a long entry– even just a sentence a day about what you’re grateful for in the moment, can help cultivate a sense of gratitude.
Gratitude from Locals
No matter how you want to practice gratitude, there’s no wrong way to do it. But to get you started, here’s what some locals had to say about gratitude:
Local artist Debra McClanahan expressed her gratitude for “her family, the Holy Spirit, and God’s grace and goodness.” Similarly, local musician Boxer Prater is practicing spiritual gratitude. “I’m grateful God lets me live another day on this earth,” he says.
Alex Blankenship, another local musician, feels he has “so much to be grateful for.” He points to his community, loved ones, and supporters, as well as feeling gratitude for “many years of service as an educator, as well as the opportunities to live out my passion for performing music.” He is also grateful to the organizations and businesses who have helped him as a local musician, and for what they do for local creatives at large. “Lastly, I’m grateful for my mom, who has always been my biggest fan, and has always supported me and been there for me through all of life’s endeavors,” He says.
Paige Alexandria Cook also feels she has a lot to be grateful for. “I am grateful for my husband who has always been my biggest cheerleader,” She says. “He is the greatest father and partner I could ask for. I am also thankful for my children who give me reasons to giggle and fill my life with love. As an author, I am also so thankful to anyone who has ever taken a chance on my work.”
World Gratitude Day is September 21, 2023. Even if you just keep it lowkey, it’s a great opportunity to take the time to sit down, close your eyes, and just be thankful for this life.
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