“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more.”

–Melody Beattie (b. 1948; American self-help author, known for her bestseller Codependent No More.)

Lean in close and listen to America gathering ’round for Thanksgiving:

“Oh my goodness, look at that turkey!”

“Mmm, do you smell that? I think it’s the rosemary!”

“Would you look at this spread? It’s a work of art!”

“Ooh, I can’t wait to dive into those mashed potatoes!”

“Save me a piece of pecan pie—no, make that pumpkin and pecan!”

“Pass me the sourdough rolls—they look so fluffy!”

“Is that sage in the stuffing? Smells amazing!”

“Wow, check out the glaze on that ham—it’s shining like caramel!”

“Even the cranberry sauce is sparkling!”

“Oh, wait! I need a picture of this before we did in!”

As everyone takes in the scene, their excitement quiets into warm smiles.

“All right, everyone, lean in! Let’s get a group selfie!”

“Come on, squeeze in! Come on. Get closer. We’re all family here!”

“Say ‘Thanksgiving!‘”

Conversations like that will be heard in more than 85% of American homes this Thursday, as families, friends, neighbors, and even community groups come together to celebrate Thanksgiving. These days, the notion of “family” has become so inclusive that many people call the day “Friendsgiving.”

Here’s the beauty of it all. Regardless of what we call the day and regardless of whether we’re celebrating as a group or alone, it’s a day to appreciate relationships, health, opportunities, or simple pleasures. It’s a day that lets us stand together on the common ground of gratitude regardless of who we’re with, what we believe, or what we’re having for dinner.

But when the meal is over, and everyone trots home, I hope that each of us takes one part of Thanksgiving with us, to enjoy daily, all year long. It’s the best part. It needs no cooking. All it needs is practice, slow daily practice. I’m talking about gratitude.

Hopefully, you’re already practicing gratitude. It’s not that hard to do.

I know some people who keep a gratitude journal. They take the time every day to write about the good in their lives. Maybe it’s something as simple and as subtle as the warmth of sunlight coming through a window. The specifics don’t matter; what matters is taking the time to notice the overlooked, appreciate small kindnesses, and celebrate resilience, beauty, and connection. They’re celebrating the things in life that matter to them–whatever those things might be, even on challenging days and through trying times.

Ironically, maintaining a gratitude journal doesn’t work for me. I prefer acknowledging my gratitude by metaphorically bowing to my blessings throughout the day.

It starts the moment I wake up to Ruby’s unconditional love—one that forgives bedhead and morning breath—and stays with me throughout the day, loyal companion by my side.
● Every day, I’m grateful for my dog.

It’s there when I look at my Fitbit to check my health stats or when I use my Smartphone to connect with the world or when I use ChatGPT to glimpse into the future unfolding before my eyes.
● Every day, I’m grateful for my technology.

It’s there in the small acts of self-care, from soaking in a warm tub to sipping Bunnahabhain Scotch, neat, as I write my blog posts in bed. These moments remind me to slow down and truly savor life.
● Every day, I’m grateful for my rituals that restore.

It’s there in the joy of seasonal celebrations, like Thanksgiving or my birthday, where meaningful meals and thoughtful traditions mark the passage of time.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the rhythms that shape my year.

It’s there in the legacy I’m building—mentoring others, inspiring through teaching, and leaving a lasting mark through my writing and endowed scholarships.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the chance to make a difference.

It’s there in my sense of humor, which allows me to find lightness in life’s challenges and keep my perspective balanced and grounded.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the gift of laughter.

It’s there in my endless curiosity, whether I’m exploring advances in AI or delving into Mary E. Wilkins Freeman research. These pursuits keep me engaged and growing.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the spark of life-long learning.

It’s there in the sanctuary I’ve created in my home, nestled on a mountaintop—a place overflowing with peace, security, and the stories of my life.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the home that holds me tight.

It’s there in the memories of family and friends—those I loved and sometimes lost, yet whose love continues to buoy me. Their presence lingers in the stories we shared, the lessons they taught, and the warmth they left behind, reminding me that love endures beyond time.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the love that never leaves me.

It’s there in the joy of cooking, whether I’m perfecting a recipe, having friends in for dinner, or conjuring up new ways to use up my sourdough.
● Every day, I’m grateful for getting turned on in my kitchen.

It’s there in my health and active lifestyle, in the moments spent biking, gardening, or simply moving through the day with energy and purpose.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the strength to keep on keeping on.

It’s there in my connection to nature, whether I’m tending peonies in the garden or reflecting on life’s deeper truths.
● Every day, I’m grateful for all the lessons of the earth that reach up, grab me, and make me take notice.

It’s there in the purposeful work I do, from my research projects to my blogging to my public speaking, which bring fulfillment and meaning to my days.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the power of purpose.

It’s there in all my hopes and dreams—for myself, for my family, my friends, and for the Earth that is my home. It’s in the vision of a brighter tomorrow, a kinder world, and a deeper connection to the beauty around me.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the possibilities that lie ahead.

It’s there in my spiritual growth and the personal transformation that comes from understanding interconnectedness and embracing life’s deeper mysteries.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the wisdom to seek guidance.

It’s there in the freedom to live authentically, to be true to who I am in my work, relationships, and values, with courage and joy.
● Every day, I’m grateful for the life I’m living.

These moments of gratitude don’t just enrich my days—they also shape who I am and how I move through the world.

My moments of gratitude, both small and profound, create a steady foundation for my life.

My moments of gratitude remind me that gratitude isn’t reserved just for special occasions like Thanksgiving but can be with me every day.

My moments of gratitude keep me singing a happy song all day, even on days that are challenging and trying.

My moments of gratitude boost my happiness and my optimism, and they nurture my positive mindset.

My moments of gratitude help me appreciate others, and they strengthen my relationships. When I make others feel good, I feel better.

My moments of gratitude prompt me to take better care of myself always and in all ways.

My moments of gratitude keep me resilient by helping me accentuate the positives, even in the face of setbacks.

My moments of gratitude foster a glass-full outlook on life and remind me that my worth is defined not by others, but by how I live each moment.

Together, these moments of gratitude create a life filled with meaning and joy. It doesn’t take a holiday or a feast to remind me—it’s there, every day, in the small and the grand, in the fleeting moments and the lasting impacts. And here’s the beauty of it all: gratitude is a practice we can all share. So why not start today? Pause, look around, and bow to the blessings in your life. They’re already there, waiting for you to notice—and for you to give daily thanks.