Everyday gratitude

By Rabbi Ariel Boxman

Our students at Temple Shalom Preschool are busy preparing for Thanksgiving. While we spend extra time thinking about all the wonderful blessings in our lives around Thanksgiving, here at Temple Shalom Preschool, we practice gratitude each and every day.

As part of our morning routines, students at Temple Shalom Preschool share what they are thankful for. In reflecting on our blessings and naming them out loud, we get into the habit of noticing the mundane. Whether it be seeing a rainbow, eating a donut or getting to be line leader, students are finding moments of gratitude in every single day.

As new director of the preschool, I, too, have so much to be grateful for. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented and dedicated staff. Our teachers are not only wonderful at instructing and inspiring young minds, they do so with warmth and kindness. Through hugs, cuddles and words of encouragement, our teachers make each child feel safe, welcome and loved.

Hannah Hyatt playing on the playground

Bree Mills enjoying learning her letters and shapes

I am also grateful for the families who have enrolled their children and entrusted us with the great task of caring for their most precious gifts. We do not take this responsibility lightly and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve the families in our school community.

Finally, I am grateful for the chance to work with our beautiful, bright and sweet children. There is nothing better than being able to work in a place where children come to play and learn. Their laughter, smiles and genuine sense of happiness are the greatest reminders of God’s presence in this world. What a blessing it is to serve Temple Shalom in this capacity!

Sam Caito and Jayden Anderson playing with chalk in our new outdoor classroom

On this Thanksgiving, I pray for all of us to be blessed with the gift of gratitude. As we take notice of our blessings, we realize all the good in our lives. May we be blessed with health, happiness, and above all, peace!

Happy Thanksgiving!