The Season of Gratitude
Most would agree that this has been a very different year. While our lives slowed down, it seems that the months and seasons sped by. Now we look towards the end of year holidays, with Thanksgiving being the first of those. Gatherings with family and friends, treasured traditions, may all be put on hold for another year. There is a sense of loss, but many of us are finding creative and meaningful ways to make changes in our lives that can bring unexpected joy and happiness.
Thanksgiving is for giving thanks. If you need a little help with this, you might want to read a book with some very personal and inspiring thoughts about life, through both the good days and those filled with challenges.
365 Thank Yous: The Year a Simple Act of Daily Gratitude Changed My Life by John Kralik
The Gratitude Diaries: How a Year Looking On The Bright Side Can Transform Your Life by Janice Kaplan
Thanks! How Practicing Gratitude Can Make You Happier by Robert A. Emmons
The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Celebrations: Rituals of Peace and Prayer by Maya Angelou
Gratitude by Oliver Sacks
Perhaps you just want to pick up a book that makes you feel good about today. Here are a few stories of those who open their eyes and find happiness in the ordinary world around them.
A Quilter’s Holiday by Jennifer Chiaverini
A Redbird Christmas by Fannie Flagg
A Man Called Ove: A Novel by Fredrik Backman
The Gift by Cecelia Ahern
And finally, a beautiful picture book celebrating the gifts of life. This one is for all ages. Read and listen together; it will warm your heart.
Grateful: A Song of Giving Thanks by John Bucchino