30 Days to Gratitude Challenge

 “Piglet noticed that even though he had a tiny heart, it could hold a rather large amount of gratitude.”

— A.A. Milne

Ever since Oprah Winfrey introduced her gratitude journal in 1997, I actively acknowledge the things I am most grateful for.  Whether by journal or letter or from my mouth to God’s ears, I try to find the good in everything. I scribbled five positive things from the day in a notebook, at bedtime, for years. I included everything from my family to Diet Coke to an LSU football win.

In November 2016, inspired by a friend, my process evolved into something more; I began posting about gratitude on my Facebook page. Each day, I publicly shared something for which I was thankful. In my very first post, I included one of my favorite Bible verses, Luke 12:48.

“…Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.”

I realize my life is blessed, but not by any action of my own except hard work, prayers, and some good, old-fashioned luck. I believe responsibility should accompany blessings; responsibility to give thanks, be kind, and show love to others.

What started as a daily activity to look for the “silver lining” ultimately changed my heart.

In seeking good in November, I unknowingly prepared my heart for the holiday season.  Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, preparation is key. I learned the practice of gratitude leading up to the Christmas season kept my focus on the “reason” for the season. Not the parties or decorations, but the real “gifts” of the season.

Over the last four years, my appreciation often focused on the “little things” not the obvious “big things.” The unexpected compliment at the grocery store, the driver who lets you into a busy lane of traffic, or a good night’s sleep might be the topic of a post and responsible for turning a frown upside down.

Perhaps skeptics might question my process. Maybe it works for me, a “half-full cup” kind of girl, but does science back it up? Scientists actually research the impacts of practicing gratitude and find that it improves well-being and satisfaction. Does it actually improve physical health? According to the Mayo Clinic – YES!:

“In addition to helping you get more sleep, practicing gratitude can boost your immunity and decrease your risk of disease.”

Why here? Why now? Well, do I need to say more than 2020? We all experienced great anxiety and stress this past year, thanks to COVID-19. We need reminders of all the things we have to be grateful for, especially in a national election month.

So join me in November for my fifth consecutive year of “30 Days of Gratitude.”  I challenge you to practice gratitude every day in November.  I plan to share daily on my Facebook and Instagram pages.

If public displays make you nervous or uncomfortable, then record your thanks in a notebook.  If writing turns you off, then share your thanks in the silence of your heart.  One way or the other, please give it a try.

Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!