Get On the Path to an Attitude with Gratitude

Over this past year, with my lovely proclivity toward saying Yes, my schedule became fuller and fuller with client meetings, writing projects, teaching and travel. The more I poured myself into my work though, the more each day began to blend into the next.

I truly love all that I do, but somehow, I began feeling lost. Thankfully, I realized I reached my tipping point. So I set aside some much needed personal time to inspire and restore.

Maybe that’s why, on a recent Saturday, I was running errands and especially enjoying the fall weather. As I was walking down the sidewalk, I was caught up in my own little world. When suddenly, out of the corner of my eye, I noticed one leaf and for some reason it stopped me cold.

A second leaf appeared, then a third, and soon — all three began jumping together like they were holding hands to play.

I didn’t see an obvious spokesperson or receive word of any viral tweets, still all the nearby leaves somehow knew to let everything else go and simply join in on the fun.

What unfolded next was an amazing, majestic upward swirl of hundreds of leaves.

Fallen leaves had gathered together to move me into a beautiful state of awe.

Just as nonchalantly, they all settled and peacefully went their own ways.

It was a serendipitous event full of wonderment.

What I’ve known deep down all along, I spoke out loud.

It is time to be conscious to what is right in front of me.

I will be more awake to appreciate the present moment.

I need to take a minute to notice the little things around me that bring me joy.

I must deliberately pause to reflect and count my blessings.

I plan to acknowledge my gratitude every day.

These messages came because I was wide open again. And they couldn’t have come at a better time. They represent the best of the holiday season—and I must share.

In the spirit of November, here’s my special Thanksgiving wish for you…

May your thanks-giving be even richer this year.

May it speak to your true spirit.

May it revere your deepest values.

May it fulfill your soul.

May it allow you to stop and truly see what is right in front of you. Then you can celebrate each and every little thing (like the lovely leaves, the wisps of wind, icy crystals and gorgeous clouds).

When you’re more inspired, you can give and give and give — and give some more.

Let gratefulness be you own special path to your well-being and happiness.

Make every day a time for thanks-giving.