The Gift of Gratitude

The Gift of Gratitude CHALLENGE

Dr. Gethsemane Moss, Ed.D.

The holiday season can be a time for family gatherings, partaking in unique food dishes, or giving presents dreamed about all year. It may be a time for self-reflection and losing count of all of the money spent during the season, whether you have it or not. On the other side of this may be the stress and pressure of wanting to make the holiday season memorable for loved ones, the desire to do more than what appears possible, personal loss, missing loved ones, or having no ideal space to decorate and gather.

Holiday traditions and family pastimes are shared during the holiday season, which varies from household to household. Some are mindful of those who don't experience family gatherings and face food scarcity or houselessness during the holiday season. Either way, the holiday season can be a joyous occasion, depending on perspective and circumstances, and does not have to be only appreciated with monetary exchange. Understand that this is not to say that gifts aren't wanted nor appreciated; this is to understand that everyone's experience is unique to their circumstances. However, there is one thing that everyone can enjoy.

The gift of gratitude is magic at one's fingertips and can reside in the spaces of one's mind. You may be thinking, how can this be? Gratitude has nothing to do with wanting gifts. You may still desire a new PlayStation, Tiffany's bracelet, or Porsche Taycan. You don't need to convince yourself not to like items you may want; however, gratitude is a practice one can embrace all year round. It’s one of the gifts that all can give, and you can give it to yourself every day of the year. Being grateful for what you already have is one way to appreciate who and where you are in your life's journey. The ability to look within and enjoy and the process will assist you in being at peace and bring about enjoyment. Research on gratitude has revealed the power to boost your immune system, improve mental health, improve relationships, and overall move you into elevated levels of happiness. Neuroscientist Dr. Joe Dispenza is one of the experts helping people understand the power of one's thinking. Dr. Joe Dispenza has a plethora of work that aids in understanding molecular and biochemical research.

Here are three small steps to get you started on the gift of gratitude:

1. Begin your day writing ten things you are grateful for and do this for at least 30 days. 2. Each evening, reflect on what was great about your day. 3. As you are writing and reflecting, be sure you are in a quiet space without distractions.

You will be amazed at what you discover. Once you are ready to go to the next level, many resources will assist you in making gratitude a gift to yourself and others all year round.