Expressions of Gratitude...

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.
William Arthur Ward


It's the week of Thanksgiving and I am so happy, I'm about to burst! This is the time of the year that I become like a little kid. Family and friends come together, in love and harmony. We share, we love, we laugh, we forgive and we move forward ready for another year.

Through the years I've often heard people ask the question, why can't we be like this all the time. I don't know if it's busyness, selfishness, hurt, or just being unaware, but we seldom show gratitude to those closest to us.

A stranger on the street holds the door for us, the car in the lane next to us allows us to get in front of them, someone we pass on the sidewalk smiles and tells us to have a nice day. We're thankful in all those instances. We show our appreciation by thanking them, smiling at them, or waving a hand or nodding our head to express our gratitude. However, those closest to us...we take them for granted. At least I know I do sometimes.

Take just a moment to tell the person closest to you how much you appreciate them. Not only that you appreciate them, but tell them exactly why you appreciate with them. Share with them some token of affection, or kind act they did for you. Then tell them how it impacted you and let them know they mean the world to you.

Don't take for granted that your spouse has to be kind, or that your child has to be humble, or your parents have to look out for you in some area or another. No one owes you anything. So, just take a moment to express your gratitude to those around you, including the strangers.

Don't hold it within, taking for granted that they may know. Maybe they don't. And maybe they'll never know...unless you speak it.

It's been another Motivational Monday Moment. God bless.

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Living Life Beautifully Inspired!
Chelle Ramsey