I was trying to think about what I was going to write today. I knew it had to be something simple, because I don't have much time since today we have an annual Thanksgiving party for our clients. For some, this is the only Thanksgiving they will have. It was a really special day. We brought out the karaoke machine, and they had a great time trying to beat each other with the score....(Then I got up there and everyone took off)....Just kidding!!! Then, we served them a dinner of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and carrots with pumpkin pie for desert. It really gives you a good feeling when you do something nice for others.
This morning I was asked to run one of the groups, and to be honest, I am usually not even here that early on a Wednesday. Today I usually work 11am to 7pm...and being the day before Thanksgiving, everyone always does something on gratitude, but not in the traditional way. I wanted more than "What are you grateful for?" because truthfully, many of our clients don't feel grateful, and they will be quick to tell you. They've lost their homes, their families, they live in a shelter, no money, no job, etc. I wanted something more inspiration for them, something that offers a sense of hope. So, I dug through my files and found a little something I would also like to share with you.
It's easy to be thankful for the good things. A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks. Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive. If you find a way to be thankful for your troubles, they can become your blessings.
Be thankful you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to?
Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn.
Be thankful for the difficult times; during those times you grow.
Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement.
Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character.
Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons.
Be thankful when you are tired and weary, because it means that your have made a difference.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. May your day be filled with love, joy, peace, and happiness.
Mary
I like your Thanksgiving reading and it's very true that the greatest blessings can sometimes come out of the worst things that happen to us. But it's sure hard to be grateful at the time those things happen! I find that a great deal of time, sometimes years, has to pass before the blessings are understood for what they are.
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