Giving Thanks
A few years ago, I met with a doctor who, during our initial chit chat, asked me what I did for a living. When I said I was a counselor he replied, “Thank you.” I looked at him quizzically and he paused, looked me in the eyes and said, “Thank you for doing that work. It’s so important.”
Wow. Now that was amazing — receiving that unexpected offering of thanks. (And from a doctor no less! Double-dog wow.)
Thanksgiving is a noun that grew from a verb: the inversion of “giving thanks.” Obvious perhaps, but the difference between the noun and the verb is significant. Looking into someone’s eyes and saying, “Thank you for that” is a rarity these days, but it is transformative for giver and receiver, both. It softens hearts and creates connection.
Life is an energy exchange of giving and receiving. If we take and do not give back, energy circulation is interrupted and the system breaks down. When we fail to offer kindness, appreciation, gratitude, and sincere thanks, we begin to take people for granted. We become disconnected and isolated. We lose our sense of place and connection. And when that happens, we begin to think it doesn’t matter what we do or don’t do, say or don’t say. We become self-centered and small.
“Thank you” is an act of giving. The ritual of honoring the exchange of energies, the act of reciprocity, matters. Giving thanks acknowledges our appreciation, gratitude and connection. It keeps the energy of generosity—and recognition and kindness—circulating. And kindness and connection and gratitude are really what make life worth living.
Thanksgiving Day reminds us (if it reminds us of anything at all besides football and family issues) to be thankful: for food, for friends and family, for light, for warmth … for everything, actually. So, in that spirit, and to keep that energy and abundance moving, I invite you to practice thanksgiving as a verb by taking part in a SEVEN THANKFUL DAYS CHALLENGE: seven days to a kinder, more thoughtful and thankful you (and much nicer world, too).
Here’s how it works: Every day for a week, thank someone for something that you appreciate but wouldn’t normally take the time to acknowledge. Look the cashier in the eye at the store. Write a note. Be sincere. Be courageous and creative. Make someone’s day with your unexpected gratitude and enjoy the pleasure of giving thanks. If you find this feels fabulous, (and I promise you will) you can extend it to 30 days. Or 365. Or forever.
On that note, I want to thank YOU for taking the time to read my words each month, and for the many generous, appreciative notes I’ve received; it means the world.
Much love to you this season, many blessings, and Happy Thanks-giving. ♥️🍁🦃
