Turkey, stuffing, football, pies, cornucopias, afternoon naps, hot toddies. Just a few words we all associate with Thanksgiving. But really, I think we sometimes forget what it’s truly all about—a time to celebrate everything we’re grateful for. I was reminded of this when I was reading the recent issue of Martha Stewart Living. It’s not a magazine I read often, but I have to say I was mesmerized by all the creative, and surprisingly simple, holiday project how-tos. I came across one that is a balanced mix of charming, fun and meaningful. Called “leaves of thanks,” the idea is to have family and friends write down what they’re thankful for on leaf-shaped paper cutouts (makes for a festive decorative piece, too!). Turn it into a game by having everyone guess who wrote what or just read the sentiments aloud with everyone around the table.
leaves of thanks, Martha Stewart Living, November 2009
So stop, and think for just a moment, “What am I thankful for?” The most important things come to you first, and then when you really dig deep, you realize how much there is to be thankful for. It’s inspiring.
I’m thankful for people’s ability to love—family, friends and even strangers. I’m thankful for laughter, whichever way it comes about, and I’m thankful for opportunity. How about you?
