Thanksgiving is a full table—a space where moments and emotions pile up like the dishes being passed around. There’s plenty to go around: joy, connection, maybe even tension. And then, somewhere beneath it all, there’s gratitude. It’s not always the centerpiece, but it’s there, steady and quiet, if you’re willing to hold it.
Gratitude is like a basket you can carry with you through the day. It doesn’t need to be heavy or overflowing to make a difference. Even a little space for gratitude can lighten your step, soften your perspective, and help you navigate the moments that feel messy or imperfect.
The health benefits of gratitude are well-documented: less stress, better sleep, a stronger immune system. But the real beauty of gratitude is how it changes the way you see what’s in front of you. It makes the ordinary feel extraordinary. The laughter over a shared joke becomes brighter. The work of preparing a meal feels more meaningful when you notice the hands helping alongside yours.
Carrying gratitude doesn’t mean forcing yourself to feel good all the time. It doesn’t ask you to ignore challenges or bypass difficult emotions. It’s simply about making room for what’s right, even as you navigate what’s hard. You can carry gratitude while tending to a crying toddler, while managing a family disagreement, or while trying to save a dish that isn’t going as planned.
When the day feels rushed or overwhelming, pause. Imagine your gratitude basket. What’s already in it? Maybe it’s the sound of leaves crunching underfoot as you take a walk, or the warmth of a loved one’s hug. Maybe it’s something as simple as having a moment to sit with your thoughts. Each time you notice something, you add it to your basket.
Here’s a practice to help you steady yourself when things feel chaotic:
• Find a quiet moment, even if it’s just while stirring a pot or stepping outside for fresh air.
• Take a deep breath and feel your feet on the ground.
• Picture your gratitude basket and place one thing in it. It could be something small—a kind word, a favorite scent, or the way sunlight filters through the window.
• Hold that thought for a few seconds. Let it settle into your chest, bringing a sense of calm.
When you return to the table, carry your basket with you. Gratitude doesn’t have to be loud or obvious. Its strength lies in its simplicity and the way it weaves into your day without demanding attention.
Thanksgiving is a day filled with moments, big and small. Let gratitude be the one thing you hold onto, steady and reliable, as you move through it all. At Beyond the Mirror Counseling and Wellness, we hope this practice brings you clarity, comfort, and connection this holiday season.
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