What does Thanksgiving mean to you? For many people, it is about gathering together with loved ones around a table, filled to overflowing with all manner of delectable food. Perhaps it brings to mind the onset of the holiday hustle that flies in the face of the purpose for a season of good will, whatever your faith tradition.

I prefer to think of it as yet another reminder of how blessed I am.  While I face the same life stressors as many on the planet…more than some, far less than others, I have learned that an attitude of gratitude trumps challenges, overcomes doubt and vanquishes fear.  Sure, I can whine and complain about what isn’t flowing as smoothly and easily as I would like, in my day to day OR I can take a step back and do a gratitude inventory. Here are some of my blessings/blissings:

My deep and abiding, ever evolving spiritual faith.

Dear friends and family, the circles of which grow and expand daily.

Creative work that I love, for which I am abundantly compensated.

A beautiful home.

A healthy and strong body that lets me do all kinds of cool stuff, like dance, yoga, walking, doing what I call my ‘playouts’ (rather than workouts) at the gym as I ‘sweat my prayers’.

Precious time with my Mom who is receiving hospice care.

When I develop ‘spiritual amnesia’ and forget how amazing my life is, I return to my gratitude list.  It is so simple and immediately effective.  I encourage you to give it a whirl….

It is a feast that you can enjoy every day for the rest of your bountiful life!

Reggae legend whose spirit still enriches us long after his passing, Bob Marley shared his thoughts on gratitude in his song Thank You Lord

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voPE1GaKTjU