On this first day of November, we all have reasons for gratitude. From a sunny morning to a warm bed, from little monkeys running around to quiet moments of solitude, from able bodies to active minds, from giving to receiving love, we are blessed.
Study after study indicates as a society we are increasingly raising children who feel innately entitled. Who fail to take responsibility for negative outcomes, who try to claim credit for positive group outcomes, who think they’ve found the “i” in team.
What a wonderful opportunity to use November as a springboard to practicing gratitude with the littles:
Garland of Gratitude: Cool little project over on Family Fun, this is designed for Thanksgiving dinner, but can be used anytime. Leaves are simple to make, and result is quite attractive. Consider modifying to a month-long project, with everyone in the family contributing a daily leaf/reason for gratitude.
Gratitude Journals: Such a simple yet incredibly powerful practice for adults and children alike. Get into the habit in November, and continue throughout the year. Everyone will benefit. There’s no need to spend money on a fancy journal. Online ideas abound, from this eco-friendly version complete with homemade glue to this simple makeover for a Mead black and white composition book. Ultimately, what matters is the grateful stuff, not the journal’s prettiness (though if a more attractive journal inspires more frequent usage, bedazzle away).
“Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart”: Love this line from our kids’ latest choir production. Since first hearing it, have often wondered if, indeed, my thanks are accompanied by a grateful heart. During a typical day, I repeatedly utter “thank you”. Sometimes it comes more from good manners than from a grateful heart. Think we’ve all been guilty of the robotic, routine ”thank you” delivered to the bank teller or grocery bagger or mailman. It’s weak.
Instead, I want to start the day seeking opportunities to offer real, look-’em-in-the-eyes, thank you’s to those around me. To go beyond “thank you” to share specifically why I am grateful for a person, action, or service. To take the time to do it right, with a grateful heart. Hope our monkeys learn to do the same.
As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. (John Fitzgerald Kennedy)
Grateful for this monkey. His big sister. Sunny days, green grass, littles playing soccer en masse.
