If we would take just 1/10th of the energy we invest in criticism and convert it to GRATITUDE, our lives would improve 100%. – Alan Cohen, paraphrased

My Dad gave that sentence to me this morning after we arrived at my sister’s home for a wonderful day of thanksgiving.

Tonight, I am grateful for that reminder.

If I fill my mind with bitterness and complaint and focus on that which causes me pain and disappointment, THAT is what will come out in my speech, my facial expression, my attitude.

If I make a conscious effort to focus my thoughts on the beauty all around me, the people who are in my life who cause me joy, the luxuries and benefits of living in this time in history/this country/this community/this home, THAT is what will come out in my speech, my facial expression, my attitude.

My boss friend and I were talking about this yesterday as she was attempting to encourage me to do just that. We both have personal experience in this area, either recognizing ourselves or someone close to us who made life miserable for everyone else in the room because of the inability or lack of effort to let it go and enjoy the moments. The Mary vs. Martha example comes to mind…

Tonight, I am grateful for my sister. She enjoyed the day today, and our family benefited from her ability to host AND focus on the beauty of the moment.

I am grateful for the tears that came to my eyes when we all held hands before the meal and my Dad prayed once again for our Thanksgiving meal and acknowledged God’s blessings.

I am grateful for a room full of twenty-somethings. They provided the entertainment during our meal, and as a member of the “older adult” table, it was a JOY to sit and listen to their table laughter and fodder and listen to the cousins reminisce.

I am grateful for a quiet evening here at home before a busy Friday of preparation begins.

I am grateful for a partner who silly grocery shops and cleans house and makes beds and cares as much as I do about creating a welcoming home.

I am grateful for a diverse circle of friends and family to recognize this weekend.

I am grateful for the privilege of having one of my closest friends from far away visit with her little girl, a new fwiend to add to our circle.

I am grateful for similarities in stories, just another way to connect by saying, “me too.”

I am grateful that I did not have to prepare the meal this year.

And I am grateful for a buffet of delicious and homemade Chex mix.