Nancy Kuhuski

Snuggled up with a warm blanket, cozy socks, a hot cup of coffee nestled in my hands, a candle flickering bringing warmth to the quiet… I seized the opportunity to pause. I love Thanksgiving. Fall is one of my favorite seasons! Sweaters, boots, scarfs, crunchy leaves, crisp sunny days, pumpkin everything! But Thanksgiving is special. It’s a time to pause and reflect on all that I am thankful for.

Taking an account of all I am thankful for changes me. As I stroll through the memories made over the year, the things that have stayed constant, the things that have changed – I’m reminded of the many little moments that have brought a smile to my face. The sound of my sons giggles, hearing the growth and maturity of my daughters thinking, having a job I truly love, opportunities seized, bucket list items checked off, friends experiencing life changing moments, family… I could go on and on with the list. I really love my imperfect life and the amazing adventure I get to live out every day!

Gratitude… Pausing provides me an opportunity to remember to be grateful. A few years ago I started a gratitude list in my phone. I add to it when I experience those moments that make me smile! I also pull that list out on a regular basis and start reading through it in the moments of discouragement. discontentment and feeling overwhelmed. There is something grounding about recounting all the things I’m grateful for when my world feels out of control.

I also use this pause to reach out to those I love and thank them for their ongoing impact on my life. It’s so easy to assume people know how much we value them and love them. Yet, there is something profoundly powerful about telling another human being how much we value and love them and that they are an irreplaceable part of our life! Yes, it’s impactful for the recipient, but it is also impactful for us! Our words are so very powerful, and we create treasured moments when we tell other’s how grateful we are for them!

Today, on Thanksgiving, will you pause? Will you reflect on all you are thankful for? Will you start or add to a gratitude list? Will you reach out to important people in your life and verbalize the impact they have on your life, and express your love for them?

Don’t forget – Random Act of Christmas Joy starts tomorrow!! Will you take the opportunity as you gather with friends and family today to discuss and plan your Random Acts of Christmas Joy (See last week’s blog post for more info!)? https://randomactsofchristmasjoy.wordpress.com/

Have a blessed Thanksgiving friends!