Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday; it’s an opportunity to cultivate a deep sense of gratitude in our lives. The question many often wrestle with is what does it actually mean to be thankful, especially in the face of challenges. One of the keys to this hurdle is to evaluate happiness and joy. Happiness is often circumstantial and fleeting, dependent on external factors. Joy, however, is a state of being that comes from within, often rooted in faith and a sense of purpose. Focusing on joy rather than fleeting happiness is just the beginning of helping us cultivate a lasting sense of gratitude.

There are certain principles we can embed into our routine that can help us to not take our blessings for granted and rather to be thankful this Thanksgiving. 

1. Change our attitudes. Entitlement and discontentment are major obstacles to gratitude. Such attitudes can prevent us from being thankful. 

2. Embrace each day as a gift. By focusing on the present and not worrying about future uncertainties, we can find joy in the moment.
3. Share our blessings with others. By connecting with others and sharing what we are thankful for, we can spread the spirit of Thanksgiving and inspire others to adopt a grateful mindset.  

Although a secular holiday, Thanksgiving is deeply rooted in biblical principles of giving thanks and worship. In 1863, Abraham Lincoln wrote a proclamation where he declared a national day of fasting and thanksgiving. Lincoln’s words remind us that despite our “growth in numbers, wealth, and power…we should not forget the gracious hand that has blessed us.” This Thanksgiving, let us unlock the spirit of Thanksgiving by choosing joy, contentment, and gratitude as we embrace each day as a gift while sharing our blessings with others. Happy Thanksgiving!

Holly’s Highlights podcast. (Photo courtesy of Holly Curby)

 For more in-depth on this topic or for related episodes, check out Holly’s Highlights podcast Season 3 Episode 24. Holly’s Highlights podcast is available wherever you listen to podcasts such as Spotify, Pandora, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts, as well as on www.hollycurby.com.