Last week marked the celebration of Thanksgiving, a time when many of us gathered with loved ones to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives. This was swiftly followed by the consumer frenzy of Black Friday and the more community-oriented Small Business Saturday. It's a curious juxtaposition — transitioning from a day of reflection and thankfulness to a weekend centered around acquiring more. Yet, in this apparent contradiction, there lies a valuable practice.
The irony of beginning a weekend dedicated to purchases by expressing gratitude for what we have is not lost on me. However, I find this to be a poignant reminder of the importance of taking stock of our lives. Amidst the clamor of sales and discounts, it serves as a moment to reflect on our past achievements. In a society that often encourages us to constantly look forward, pausing to acknowledge the milestones we've reached can be a powerful exercise.
I've come to view this as a form of self-grace — a deliberate act of being kind to oneself. As I resisted the urge to dive into the shopping frenzy and instead focused on essentials like grocery shopping, I found myself in a reflective state. Thanksgiving, for me, became not just about the external expressions of gratitude but an internal inventory of personal accomplishments.
Last year has been a journey filled with achievements, both big and small. It's a testament to my growth and resilience. Taking the time to recognize these accomplishments is not only a practice in gratitude but also a means of nurturing a positive relationship with oneself. In a world that can sometimes be harsh and critical, extending kindness to oneself is a radical act.
This Thanksgiving, my celebration took a different form. I didn't cook a big meal; instead, my niece graciously hosted a wonderful dinner at her and her and her husband’s Air B&B. It was a reminder that celebrations need not be extravagant to be meaningful.
In the spirit of extending kindness, I've set an intention to not only speak kindly to others but also to myself. Recognizing the value of self-affirmation, especially in the face of personal challenges, is an ongoing practice. While my "People Picker" might not always be spot on, I'm grateful for the constant support and love from my husband. In him, I've found a source of strength and understanding that makes the journey all the more worthwhile.
As we transition from a weekend of reflection and gratitude to the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I carry with me the lessons of self-grace and the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the journey, no matter how small the steps may seem.
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