Thoughts About Thankfulness by Ann Walker

Scientists have found that people who are grateful are notably happier and healthier. There are many articles that can be found about practicing gratefulness. The upcoming Thanksgiving holiday has given me some reasons to reflect on gratefulness.

In most parts of America, we are entering into a season where the weather becomes colder. In Evans City, we have already seen our first snowfall. I would be happy with only one more snowfall—a White Christmas—which would suffice for the year! As much as I don’t like to drive in the snow, I will admit that the big, fluffy flakes were beautiful! I am grateful that I am able to appreciate the snowfall. What else am I grateful for?

• I am thankful for family and friends. Within the last few years, I have found that I’m even thankful to realize that no matter how people may look at things differently, there are many people in our lives that make life interesting.
• I am grateful that—as much as I thought I knew about my religion—I am realizing I have a thirst to learn so much more about Catholicism and find more ways to live my best life each day. Some days can be challenging, but I am thankful to realize that God is with us. I know that each day is a new chance to start fresh and do the best that I can.
• There are many other things I’m grateful for, but I am extremely grateful to realize that the more grateful I am, the happier I am.

What are you grateful for? If we take a little time to ponder this question and write something new down each day, I think that we will develop a pretty impressive list. Some days may be more challenging, so we might just start with simple things versus complex happenings. Whatever it takes, let’s take the time to relish the good thoughts and keep working towards even better ones! One step at a time!

Who should I thank above all? God. I am so grateful for Him.

Thanking God is a great place to start.

Happy Thanksgiving!

- Ann Walker