It Isn’t Only for November

November is the month of gratitude.

For a learning project, I decided to help my grandson create a Thanksgiving wreath. When I asked him to name something he felt thankful for, he didn’t hesitate.

“Lettuce,” he announced.

Lest you think my grandson is a salad connoisseur, let me explain. Lettuce is his favorite stuffed animal; a cat. Well-loved enough to have become worn and shabby, Lettuce travels to school for nap time every day and is snuggled in bed every night. Not to mention the little cat is a powerful antidote whenever life hands out lemons.

[image error]Lettuce in his prime

My grandson’s devotion to Lettuce got me thinking. Is gratitude firmly linked to all things which bring comfort and reassurance?

I scoured the internet for articles, and found enough material to fill a library. Anecdotal tales and a number of studies indicate an attitude of gratitude does indeed bring measurable benefits. Among them include better health, greater happiness, and improvement in sleep. I’d say that’s enough to bring me a dollop of comfort.

If you’re detail-hungry, here’s a great article on the subject at a site called Happier Human. It’s a fascinating read.

Sadly, daily events don’t always lend themselves to warm and fuzzy feelings of thankfulness. But don’t let that stop you from cultivating the possibility.

As with most things, the key is habit.

Some people like to keep a thankfulness journal. Others put notes on a dry-erase board. I know several folks who write on a slip of paper each day and place it in a gratitude jar to be read at year’s end.

If pen and paper aren’t your thing, don’t worry. Mindfulness works too. A simple, “I woke up today,” can start you on a positive note. And consider your interactions with others. A thank-you isn’t only good etiquette. It’s a way to express…gratitude. Use it.

Once you decide what method (or methods) you like, start building the habit. Count a blessing or two on most days of the week. First thing in the morning, right before sleep at night, or anywhere in between. Come on. Aren’t you thankful for making it through the yellow light?