Find an attitude of gratitude and give thanks

“… And God saw that it was good.” Genesis 1:18 (NIV)

Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for expressing gratitude.

One of my favorite traditions with my family is to say grace before eating and then for each person to express one thing for which he is grateful.

Over the years, the expressions range from “my football, good friends and family,” to finances and physical health.

Webster's dictionary defines grateful as “appreciative, thankful.” Gratitude is an attribute of God himself. God made the first declaration of gratitude himself after creation when he pondered, “ It is good.”

We become more intimately acquainted with God when we imitate his character. I see many ways gratitude brings us into a deeper appreciation for life and our relationship to God.

When we show gratitude toward another person that is an expression of gratitude to God for that person.

There are many creative ways to show gratitude. Giving gifts, sending cards, or a letter.

You can show gratitude to someone you wouldn't normally thank. A boss, an elected official, teacher, pastor, child or spouse. There's many opportunities to stir some gratitude in your heart.

Oftentimes, we get into the mundane doldrums of life. Or we are overcome by challenging circumstances. We feel like there's nothing to be grateful for. Especially during hard times. That's why Thanksgiving can be a time to stop listening to our emotions and stir our awareness to the blessing around us and give a prayer of thanks.

Practice getting into the spirit of gratitude. Don't be afraid to get creative with compliments and praise. It may open the door for new friendships or exciting adventures. At best, it will give your spirit a boost of joy!

Annettee Budzban is a Local, Christian author, speaker, life coach, and nurse. She can be contacted by e-mail at Annetteebudzban@aol.com