Grateful

November is here and we are officially in the holiday season! How quickly this year has flown by! Before we dive into the Christmas season and start hanging lights, watching Christmas movies, and indulging in daily Christmas shopping, take some time this month to pause and think about what you are most thankful for.

Even if you have encountered some challenges this year, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel. Here are some prompts to get you started:

• Do you have a roof over your head? Check.
• Do you have a job or a way of earning income? Check.
• Are you in relatively good health? Check.
• Do you have family and/or friends who care about you? Check.
• Do you have clothes on your back? Check.
• Are you well fed and able to eat up to 3 meals a day? Check.

 Ask yourself if your basic needs are being met, and if you can check yes to most of these, be thankful for those things. Too often we take for granted the simple things in life. No doubt, life can get hard, but it is during the difficult times that we can learn to appreciate the simplest privileges we’ve been afforded in our life.

 In this season of thankfulness, it is a great time to not only reflect on what you’re thankful for but to pay it forward for those who might not have some of those basic needs met that you do. Here are a few ideas of ways to pay it forward and show some kindness through the holiday season:

• Pay someone a genuine compliment. You never know what someone if going through and how much your kind words can lift their spirits.
• Smile. That’s it, just smile.
• Volunteer your time to a nonprofit like a food bank.
• Donate food to a food bank.
• Visit someone in the hospital and lift their spirits.
• Donate unused clothes to help someone who may have less.

 I hope you found these ideas helpful as you search for ways to give back and express your thankfulness this month.

 If you’re into being active and supporting a cause, consider participating in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s on November 5^th.

 Enjoy the start of the holiday season. Eat lots of turkey and stuffing but don’t forget the reason for the season. Show your appreciation