As we quickly approach Thanksgiving, many can find it hard to have reasons for thankfulness and gratitude. The year 2020 has not been an easy one. We have had to live with the stressors of everyday life and so much more. We have had several natural disasters, a heated presidential election, the killing of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others while living in the pandemic of COVID -19. Many have lost their jobs, lost loved ones, and life as we once knew it seemed to change drastically. Experiencing all of that can make it hard for anyone to see the brighter side of things. However, through all of this, there is still a silver lining.
Take some time to reflect on the most basic things. I mean the most superficial and smallest things, starting with the ability to read this blog. If you are reading this, then that means you woke up today. That within itself is a blessing.
If it is hard to think of your own, I will share some ideas to trigger some things for you as reasons to give thanks.
- Family – This climate has brought many family closers together. Being forced to quarantine has allowed families to spend time together; they would not have had otherwise spent.
- Health – Some of us have been fortunate enough not to have experienced COVID or other health issues. Others have had successful recoveries.
- Clarity/Understanding – This time has forced society to stop and pause. It has forced us to pay attention and to take action. We have become attentive to what is going on around us and what is occurring in our personal lives. This year has caused many to “clean house” and get right.
- Self Improvement – Selfcare and growth have become essential for many people. So many people are working to improve the quality of their lives.
- Income – Many are fortunate to have the means to pay bills and live life comfortably
- Accomplishments – In this time, some are still able to celebrate graduations, births, engagements, marriages, home buying, job promotions, and so much more.
Be thankful—express gratitude, even when you don’t feel like it. These trying times have had an impact on everyone. We have all been affected in some way, but remember, every silver lining has a cloud.