I know it is a few days away from Thanksgiving Day but wanted to write my blog before I get busy with preparing for my family and friends who will be spending this special day with me at my house in the mountains.

This is one of my favorite times of year because the weather is definitely heading into winter months where the beauty of the leaves on the tree’s changing, the snow gently coming down to decorate for Christmas, the comfort foods going full force on the stove and in the oven, and the smells of “home” become ingrained in our minds.

Thanksgiving provides a salutary occasion for saying thanks, both to the God from whom all blessings flow and to those who are conduits of divine blessings in our lives. It’s a time to stop what we’re doing and say “Thank you” to the people in our lives who deserve to hear this from us. Even if you manage to thank only one other person this Thanksgiving, that small gesture can make a big difference in the life of that person.

So, may I encourage you to use the occasion of Thanksgiving to thank the people in your life who matter to you. Tell them that you’re thankful for them. Drop someone a note. Or make a short phone call or text message. Telling people that you’re thankful for them will enrich your life as well as the lives of those for whom you are grateful.

As a Christian, I would argue that giving thanks to God is important because it honors God. I would also argue that Scripture calls for consistent gratitude among God’s people. But, there is also case for gratitude that doesn’t depend on biblical theology. In fact, it appeals to common sense and even self-interest. To put the matter bluntly: Gratitude will improve your life.

Gratitude magnifies our experience of the good things in life, enabling us to enjoy them more thoroughly. Gratitude also helps us to endure the hard things in life with dignity, perhaps even with humor. Gratitude is like savoring a fine meal, enjoy every bite, rather than racing through a meal as if it’s some sort of race.

So Thanksgiving is an “all year long” attitude that improves our relationships, our lives, our business, our soul and spirit. A smile if done 30 minutes a day will extend your life by 8 years. Just think what the attitude of gratitude will do for you!!! I am thankful for every moment that I am blessed to experience life, love, good health, friends and family. But mostly I am thankful this Thanksgiving Thursday, for the turkey, stuffing, yams, and laughter that will be coming from my house, ringing through the mountain valleys, because love and friendship are always remembered and bonds that are a part of my life.  Thank you to all of you who read this blog and support me through love and friendship!! May you all have a blessed Thanksgiving Season!!!