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Dear [NAME]
A Tradition Of Gratitude
Halloween is barely past with all the fun of bobbing for apples and dressing up in costumes, and Thanksgiving is already on the horizon. Both of these are American traditions that bring opportunities to mix with people of other generations.
When my husband and I settled in Switzerland years ago, Thanksgiving was the most difficult holiday for me to be away from my family. It was always a very special day when the whole family gathered, grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles. To find myself in another country where Thanksgiving is not celebrated made me very homesick indeed. So I decided to create my own Thanksgiving and invite our Swiss family to celebrate the day!
Rarely have I fussed more over making a meal so perfect. I spent days finding ingredients, seeking a big enough turkey, and making decorations. I even found directions explaining how to slice a turkey.
What resulted was a new family tradition that reminded me just how fortunate I was to have so many wonderful people who cared, each in their own special way.
Over the years we have celebrated many Thanksgiving dinners with family and friends. It is an occasion to reach out to others and to remind them that they are precious in our life, and why they are important to us.
A new tradition for me is sending out Thanksgiving notes to people for whom I am thankful. There are many who touch my life in unique and simple ways and they are a blessing to me. What a wonderful moment to tell them so!
I encourage you to create an opportunity to celebrate Thanksgiving. As we mature I believe that this becomes even more important. Thanksgiving is a state of mind.
Begin a new tradition this Thanksgiving. Make every day a “thanksgiving” day. Here are a couple of suggestions.
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Send a note to someone to say “I am grateful to know you”, and tell them why they are special to you. A few simple words can make a world of difference to that person.
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Before you go to sleep at night, count the blessings of the day. Focus on the happy moments. Relive them in your mind. Being grateful when we go to sleep makes our slumber more peaceful.
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When you wake up in the morning, before you even open your eyes, give thanks for the day that is about to unfold. This attitude of gratitude will make your day an even better one.
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Keep in mind that when we recognize the goodness in our lives, we create the right environment for more goodness to happen.
Research shows that people who recognize the goodness in their lives and focus on the positive tend to live longer, happier lives. Gratitude is good for your health.
May your days be full of Thanksgiving!
Happy AgeEsteem,
Bonnie
“An attitude of gratitude brings gratitude to your attitude and life continues to improve.” Bonnie Fatio
AgeEsteem enriches everyone. If you have a question, would like to share a personal story or tip concerning self esteem and age, or comment on these messages I look forward to hearing from you! bonnie.fatio@AgeEsteem.com
©Bonnie Lou Fatio
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