The title isn't new or unique to me by any means, but it seemed appropriate for the time of year and day of the week. I have enjoyed reading my friends' daily "thankful" posts on Facebook of late. It helps to offset my growing disgust with retail stores that totally ignore Thanksgiving and jump directly to Christmas. Even while grocery shopping last evening I came across a shelf of "discounted" Thanksgiving items. As though the store was attempting to get rid of the stock because the need for the items was past.
Then I am reminded that scripture exhorts me to be thankful in all circumstances, even if the local merchants have missed the point. I am reminded that there is reason to be thankful even if the future appears uncertain ... even when one or more of our children is struggling financially ... even when a friend is struggling with a cancer diagnosis, delivered the day before he walked down the aisle with his new bride ... even when political events/decisions adversely affect my elderly parents ... even when good friends are wrestling with an unexpected change in employment ... and on and on the list goes.
How do we teach perpetual thankfulness to our children? Certainly the time of year presents a wonderful opportunity to share not only the historical roots of this holiday, but also how to incorporate an attitude of thanksgiving in their daily lives. Developing a daily spirit of thankfulness takes commitment and effort, but the benefits are unending. According to one article, the benefits of being grateful include:
- Better behavior
- Brighter outlook on life
- Better academic grades
- Making you a better friend to others
- Better sleep
- Stronger relationships
- Better heart health
- A stronger immune system
Who wouldn't want to enjoy all those positive results of thankfulness?! So look for creative ways to remind your children to be thankful, even in trying circumstances. Perhaps the best way to do this is to train ourselves to do the same! And may you not rush through this season of thanksgiving in order to reach Christmas more quickly. Take the time to thoroughly enjoy the opportunity to be thankful with your family.
Still on the journey ...
~Judy Wnuk
Sonlight Customer Champion
