Giving thanks this holiday season is great for your attitude

"Gratitude is the best attitude"-Author Unknown

Thanksgiving Day is quickly approaching and most people are already busy planning and shopping for the family feast. But it's important to note that Thanksgiving is more than just a plump, juicy turkey with all the trimmings. It's a time to gather with family and friends, and hopefully share with one another how grateful we are to have loved ones near.

Tis' the season to give thanks for all the many blessings in our lives. For some of us, we've been blessed with wonderful families and dear friends. That's something to be grateful for.

Maybe you're like me and this is your first Thanksgiving with your child and you'll get to see your children wear sweet potatoes and dressing all over their faces and cute little outfits. Now that's a Kodak moment!

The truth is, whether you have family around you or not, choose to be grateful for life. You're alive and here on this planet and that's something to feel good about. The challenge is to carry this attitude past the Thanksgiving season. An attitude of gratitude is something we should practice 365 days a year. Wouldn't it be nice to encounter people who had this type of outlook on life? They were grateful for each day and took advantage of every opportunity  to make each day the "best" day possible. You do that by not taking anything for granted because every moment of life is precious.

My wish is that this season's attitude of gratitude would be contagious and that people will spread it wherever they go. It starts with you and me. Let's make this holiday season a great one by being grateful for things great and small. I challenge myself to look beyond the physical feast and delight in the warmth and comfort of a loving home with a healthy family. And I'm going to try to keep that positive attitude going.

I didn't say it was going to be easy. But I believe it's worth a try.  Try taking a moment and reflect on all the good things that have happened in your life. Think about the wonderful people that you have healthy relationships in your life. If you have a family photo album or old family videos, pull them out and relive some of those unforgettable moments that made you smile or laugh. Hopefully, these things will prove to be a good jump start on your new attitude.

An attitude of gratitude. Sounds like a great way to begin any day!