Let's be honest, 2020 has not been a great year collectively. I do not need to delve into specifics as I am sure you already know. While individually many of us have had the occasionally highs, collectively this year has been marred by lows. So when Thanksgiving comes around, how do we find gratitude?
Embrace the highs no matter how big or small
The highs could be someone telling you job well done on a project at work, finally doing that home organization you've been putting off, or making strides in a personal relationship. It could be brief moment that made you smile. The highs don't have to be these monumental moments. They can be, but they don't always have to be.
Appreciate what you have and those around you
This has been a year of monumental loss for the entire world. Lost homes, lost jobs, lost family and friends. This makes it even more important than ever to appreciate everything we have. Whether it be a steady job, a supportive family, loyal friends, or all of the above. There was just so much loss, everything we still have is such a blessing.
Hold tight to the memories
The word unprecedented has been thrown around often. That's because that is what this year truly is. Holiday celebrations will either be extremely condensed or canceled entirely. Touching on loss again, for many households there will be an empty seat (or seats) at the table. This is why we must hold tight to the memories. The memories of happier times. The memories of normalcy. This year of all years, keeping those memories alive is so essential.
There is no denying that finding gratitude in 2020 is difficult. Even if we have to dig deep, we all have reasons to be grateful though. I implore you to remember those reasons today and everyday.