An Attitude of Gratitude

Having an attitude of gratitude every day makes us aware of the blessings that come our way.

~ Stacy J. Coles

Thanksgiving dinner is over, but our attitude of gratitude should be on-going. It's great when a holiday gives you a reason to sit down and think about what you're thankful for. But it shouldn't take a turkey dinner to help us remember all the blessings in our lives. Gather the family and find some fun ways to remind one another of what you're grateful for and make the gratitude attitude last.

Make a thankful tree. Cut leaf or ornament shapes out of colored construction paper. Have each member of your family write down what they are thankful for. Then, punch a hole in each cutout and string it on a tree. Use it as a centerpiece or decoration.

Play a thankful game. Sit in a circle and play catch with a blown-up balloon or bouncy ball. Whoever catches the balloon or ball uses a Sharpie marker and carefully writes down what they are thankful for. By the time everyone in the circle has had a turn, the balloon or ball is covered with blessings.

Create a thankful journal/scrapbook. Every year, take a picture, draw a picture, or write about what you are thankful for. Compiling these blessings is a great reminder of what we are blessed with over the years.

Play "blessing" Scrabble. As you follow the regular rules to this word-making game, take a minute after creating your word to name a blessing that starts with each letter of your Scrabble word. It might just become your favorite way to play.

If you're not the game-playing type, simply ask your kids, parents, siblings, and/or friends what they're thankful for. Or, better yet, tell your kids, parents, siblings, and/or friends how thankful you are for them being in your life. Thank them for helping you, inspiring you, or just putting up with you.

There is always something to be thankful for. It's important to remember all that we've been given and give thanks where thanks is due. Having an attitude of gratitude every day makes us aware of the blessings that come our way.

Gratitude Attitude