By Michele D. Baker
It’s beautiful November and there’s much to be grateful for this year!
Elections will take place across our great nation. No matter who you vote for, it’s important to acknowledge the many public servants of all faiths, creeds, backgrounds and skin tones who give of their time and talents at the local, state, and national levels to make America a beautiful and prosperous place to live and work. Your vote matters – exercise your rights as a citizen and make your choices and values heard on November 5.
On November 11 we honor veterans. Thank you for your service and your sacrifice to keep America safe and free. We appreciate your dedication and your diligence to our shared country.
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This Thanksgiving, I encourage you to spend some time thinking about what you value. Is it family? Friendship? Kindness, volunteer deeds and good works? Equality for minorities and social justice? Protecting our shared planet? Better schools and education for your grandchildren? Healthy food for all? Clean water in Florida’s oceans? Whatever it is that you value, be thankful for it. Take time each day to put some “good vibes” into the world around your chosen ideas. Say, “I’m so grateful for ___” and spend a moment in mindfulness or prayer.
Then, put that gratitude into practice: little things end up becoming big things. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Collect school supplies for your neighborhood school. Send a donation to your local homeless shelter. Read to small children. Adopt a shelter pet. Be present in your community and in your family. Remind others how much you love them (and remind yourself, too!).
All these little things add love to the world. In this time of great division, be a unifier. Be thankful. Express it aloud and do the small actions that add up and become an ocean of good.
Happy, happy November, happy Thanksgiving, and much joy!
In gratitude,
