Thanksgiving is a celebration marked on our annual calendar. For some, when the day is done and it’s time to go back to normal life, work, kids, homework, and responsibility, it becomes more difficult to focus on what you have and take for granted every day.

Our lack of gratitude isn’t intentional; it’s just that we don’t always guide our attention to the abundance in our lives.

Both abundance and lack exist simultaneously in our lives as parallel realities. It is always our choice which we will attend to.

When we choose not to focus on what we lack, what is missing in our lives, but are grateful for the abundance that is present, we are free to experience true joy and fulfillment.

It’s easy to get swept up in our busy-ness and daily hassles that cause anxiety.

I once read an article about telling our children to, “Hurry up.” That article made me stop and think about how often I rush through whatever I’m doing to the next thing, and also how often I try to rush my children, too.

Kids can be great models to adults about how to enjoy the present moment.

Have you ever watched a child immersed in an activity, a movie, or play? Look into their faces and you will see the rapt wonder of discovery, hear their unabashed laughter, and see their pure happiness in engagement.

What we appreciate increases in our lives.

Gratitude connects us with our hearts and roots us in the present moment. Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life and makes what we have enough, and more. There are amazing social, psychological, and physical health benefits that come from giving thanks.

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When I slow down long enough to consider all that I have and how to turn ordinary moments into those I appreciate, I am creating memories of a life well-lived and loved.

When my daughter cries, instead of being irritated, I am grateful that she still needs and wants me to comfort her. I relish the feel of her small hands in mine, the smell of her hair, and the saltiness of the tears I kiss away.

I am grateful for my health, my family near and far, my friends, my home, my work, my freedom, the lessons of yesterday and the experiences ahead.

Each day presents the gift of opportunity to appreciate the abundance of life.

So, in the true spirit of Thanksgiving, ask yourself these questions:

You will find, as you count your blessings each day that more good things will come your way. What you focus on expands!

Take note of the things you’re thankful for each day in a gratitude journal. There are even gratitude apps for your iPhone or android. As you follow a regular practice of recording these items, you’ll see your list grow over time. It’s so uplifting to look back at the things that made you happiest!

I am grateful that you have taken the time to read this article. I sincerely hope it will help you choose to bring more gratitude and abundance into your life.