Every November, I have a tradition. I write down one thing I’m thankful for every day. It helps me remember my many privileges and blessings. It’s a chance to pause and show gratitude to God and the people around me. It helps me reflect on how I can help those who are not as fortunate. It’s a good tradition that has brought a lot of joy into my life. Here’s my list so far.
Day 1: Recess (It is a huge blessing the day after Halloween.)
Day 2: Indoor plumbing
Day 3: I’m grateful I was able to spend time with my friend Sara. We went shopping this morning. Shopping with friends is the best type of shopping. I’m also thankful for my breakfast omelet. Omelets are delicious.
Day 4: Sunsets
Day 5: I’m grateful for music.
Day 6: I am thankful I can vote. I honor the many brave woman who marched, went to jail and stood up to oppression.
I’m also thankful for my voting sticker. I absolutely loved stickers as a kid. I still think stickers are fun. It makes me smile to get my sticker. In fact, I have saved every voting sticker I’ve ever gotten and put it in my journal.
Day 7: My Mom is incredible. I love her so much. I’m grateful for all she has done for me. We talked on the phone yesterday. It’s a blessing to have a Mom.
Day 8: My car runs.
Day 9: I love my toothbrush. It makes the most delightful sound. Sometimes, I dance a little jig when it starts to buzz. There are so many simple things that brighten my day. I’m thankful for my toothbrush.
Day 10: Hugs. I’m thankful for hugs. I had a rough day. It was the kind of day that I just sat on my bed and cried. It was the kind of day that I told God that life is incredibly unfair. It was painful. It hurt. I’m thankful for the friend who gave me a hug. Hugs are a blessing. Friends are a blessing.
Day 11: I’m thankful to be alive. Life is not perfect. It’s good to be alive though. I’m thankful to learn, love and survive another day. I believe in happy endings. I haven’t gotten mine yet, but there’s always tomorrow. God be thanked for a new day.
It’s a good day to be thankful. That is why I do the Thankful Challenge every year. It helps me remember. What are you thankful for today?
“This a wonderful day. I’ve never seen this one before.” — Maya Angelou
my 13 day challenge 