“What are you thankful for?” I asked.
The eyes from the other side of the table turned kind.
“I am thankful for this time of year, where things slow down. I stop. I stop being busy and become aware. If we don’t stop, we just keep going. Gratitude is about awareness. When I stop, my heart rate goes down. I am calm. In the quiet, I can take it in. I can watch and see things more clearly for what they are.”
“And, what do you see?” I prompted.
“I see connections, the relationships I have with other people. I play a role in other people’s lives and other people bring value to mine. It’s all about connections.”
“And, what are you thankful for?” I asked again.
“I am thankful that I am not wandering alone. I am thankful for those around me, that are connected to me. It sounds too obvious. That’s why it is so important to slow down and become aware. If we don’t stop, we just keep going.”
During this time of Thanksgiving, I am going to stop. To become aware.
See you next week. With my gratitude.
I would only add that it is a great time to stop and raise your awareness but it can be helpful throughout the year. Take 10 – 15 minutes of your day and clear your mind of your to do list. Then you will experience the awareness that comes from this simple exercise of the mind.
I am grateful I have friends like you!