🙏 Reaching Towards Gratitude & Reflection This Thanksgiving🌽
As Thanksgiving approaches, we find ourselves looking forward to family gatherings, sweet treats, and moments of gratitude. Yet, it’s essential to acknowledge that while this holiday is often celebrated, it also carries the weight of historical significance—especially as we remember the painful legacy of indigenous genocide. This is a time to reflect not only on our gratitude but also on the truths of our past, learning from history, and honoring the lives and cultures that have been impacted.
One thing I am most grateful for right now is my right to vote. I know that this election didn’t turn out the way many of us hoped, but voting is something I do not take for granted. Right now there is only one country in the world where women don’t have the right to vote, and that is Vatican City, in which only Catholic Church cardinals, who must be male, vote to elect the pope. Let that sink in. . . As a refresher, the pope has the power to:
Influence global affairs
Sit with heads of state
Lobby other states to advance the church's worldview
Depose rulers
Adjudicate political disputes among rulers
So, while we gather, I invite you to think about something you are grateful for, and how our voices can be heard amidst chaos.
The Importance of Gratitude
Gratitude is more than just a polite thank you; it’s a transformative practice that can elevate our mindset and cultivate a sense of abundance. When we consciously acknowledge what we appreciate—be it the laughter we share with friends, the comfort of a cozy home, or the lessons we learn through adversity—we shift our focus from what’s lacking to celebrating the goodness that surrounds us. It’s a powerful tool for nurturing our mental and emotional well-being.
So, as we gather around tables this Thanksgiving, let’s focus on those aspects of our lives—big or small—that we cherish. Embrace the beauty in shared moments, the warmth of connection, and the lessons gained from the past. Authentic gratitude expands our hearts and brings us closer together.
Transitioning Into Reflection
As we transition from the vibrant energy of fall into the quieter, more contemplative vibe of winter, it’s a perfect time to reassess our inner landscape. This season invites us to turn inward, embrace stillness, and nurture ourselves.
Think of this seasonal change as a cozy cocoon where you can curl up with your thoughts and dreams. Allow yourself to savor quiet moments, whether through journaling, meditation, or simply enjoying a serene winter evening. Embracing this reflective time will help ground your spirit and rejuvenate your mind.
Embracing the Shift
This Thanksgiving, let’s honor the true spirit of the season. Acknowledge the weight of our history while also inviting in the warmth of gratitude. Share your favorite gratitude practices with loved ones—perhaps around the dinner table, or with a comforting cup of tea in hand.
Let this time be a moment to honor ourselves, reflect on the year past, and embrace the stillness ahead. Gratitude isn’t just a fleeting moment; it’s a sustained practice that supports us through all seasons of life.
