Sometimes being thankful can be difficult. We live in a very stressful, fast-paced world. Everything is go-go-go. “If you aren’t moving, you are losing” seems to be the way of thinking now. That seems to be the mentality of everything happening in our lives.
Rarely do we stop and say “thank you” for the simple things. We are all surrounded by amazing things. These things give us feelings of comfort and happiness.
Here is a shortlist of the things that we should all be thankful for as Thanksgiving approaches. While these might seem like common sense, these are things that we all take for granted. They are the actual reasons we should all be thankful.
Our Fur Babies
Pets are sometimes the closest things that we have to our own family. They love unconditionally and without reservation. Our pets are always there when we need them. They sense when something might be wrong, and they stand by our side. There is no love more remarkable than that of a pet. While we probably take advantage of their presence, we should take a moment to be grateful that they are always there.
Friends
Good friends are honest and supportive. They are there when we need them the most. We can tell them anything, call them at any time of the day, and they are there. Friends are loyal and have your back. While it might feel like your friends might not have supported every decision that you made, they always have your best interest at heart.
Traditions
Riding around looking at Christmas lights. A specific cake on your birthday. Sunday morning music playing in the kitchen. These are all traditions, and they make us feel warm. We are constantly creating new traditions with those that we love. Traditions can make the special times extra-special, and the mundane feel extraordinary. Being thankful for those little things that you do with your friends and family, or even by yourself, is something to be grateful for.
Nature
Taking a walk around outside can change your frame of mind and your outlook on things. Fresh air, birds singing, the different colors of leaves are all things that we should stop and appreciate. Listening to the sounds while clearing your mind does so much to our mood. Being thankful for the simple beauty right outside our doors can make you feel more connected to the world.
You Are Here
It’s so simple. You are here. You are alive. For many, this feels like a lot. Being alive can feel like a lot. Maybe there are things that you are facing that are hard to deal with. We all have challenges, and yes, sometimes our challenges feel insurmountable. Being here is not easy all of the time. Sometimes it feels like we have it the hardest, and some people have it easier. But that isn’t the case. Most people suffer in silence, and you never know what someone else is facing. Begin thankful that you are alive and that you CAN fight those battles can go a long way to feeling more optimistic.
Being thankful can help your mental health. You start to feel more optimistic about your life. Practicing gratitude helps you feel that things aren't as dark as they might feel. While you aren’t oblivious to worries or any unfavorable circumstances that you may be going through, acknowledging the good around you will help you through those lonely times.
Being thankful changes your viewpoint of the world. Take a deep breath and look for things to be thankful for this season. No matter how small they might seem, they can make an enormous impact on your outlook.
Misty Roussa is a Louisiana native who lives with her husband and two children. She has contributed to Red Stick Mom, The CF Foundation, and Cystic-Fibrosis.com. When she isn't writing, you can find her reading, listening to podcasts, or trying to cook something her family will enjoy.
