THANKSGIVING AND GRATITUDE

”Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all the others”  Marcus Tullius Cicero

     By its nature, gratitude leads to humility and wisdom, because a grateful heart understands than none of us is independent.  We’re designed to depend on each other as a family; and to depend as a family on God. At its heart, Thanksgiving has always been about acknowledging our dependence on God and offering Him our love and gratitude. Thanksgiving offers a great opportunity to reflect on everything that God has done for us and to give thanks to God in recognition of that goodness and providence. 

     Leading up to Thanksgiving Day, we can integrate the great blessings of our lives with the source of life, our creator. Take the time to recognize blessings in our lives. Take some time to name your blessings out loud. At every dinner, have everyone in your family name one way in which he or she is blessed.

      If you consider someone to be a blessing in your life, let that person know. Tell your kids, parents, siblings, or friends how much they mean to you and why. Try to do something nice for someone today.  It doesn’t have to be something big. Bake some cookies, give flowers, write a heartfelt message or send an e-Card. You’d be surprised how much such blessings will be appreciated.      

       ~ “A Catholic Thanksgiving Filled with Faith, Food & Fun”  spxdallasschool.org