“An attitude of gratitude” is an expression I learned many years ago from an amazing group of women. I was a new Mom at the time, grateful for my son but somewhat overwhelmed by my responsibilities. Caring for a much-loved and wanted baby didn’t seem like it should be so complicated. These women were older, wiser and more relaxed about their duties which were far greater than mine. We became acquainted through volunteering for a common cause. They were optimistic without viewing the world through rose-colored glasses. Their deeply developed convictions spurred them on even through challenges.

When babies two and three arrived in rapid succession, I had to forego my volunteer work, but I always remember those women who gave me such encouragement through their examples of kindness and gratitude.

I certainly knew about being grateful, my parents had taught me that during my growing up years, and if they overlooked any nuances of gratitude, the nuns, who were my teachers, filled in nicely. The sentiment about “it takes a village to raise a child” was not playing in Peoria during my childhood, but in looking back, that’s basically how it played out. Our parents, teachers, extended family and parents of our friends were pretty much on the same page, and we benefited from their combined wisdom. It wasn’t a perfect world, of course, as that doesn’t exist, but I always believed that people who had such an influence in my life were doing their best given what they knew at the time. It’s unreasonable to expect more.

Lessons about gratitude have lingered throughout the years, and some days it’s still necessary to make a conscious decision to give thanks. When life becomes particularly difficult or discouraging, it’s even more important to find reasons for being grateful. That attitude of gratitude isn’t reserved for the mountain top experiences. It’s necessary for the daily routine of life, the moments of wonder, and particularly when circumstances challenge our perspective and expectations.

Each year on the fourth Thursday of November our country’s citizens gather together to celebrate the national holiday of Thanksgiving. It has been celebrated as a federal holiday every year since 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it a national day of Thanksgiving and Praise. Obviously many details of the celebration have varied through the past 152 years. Some weren’t significant enough to fuss over, even though we often do. Sometimes that’s where we get caught up, in the details, and miss the real significance of an event.

The people gathered around our table each year and those we hold dear in our memory are cherished companions on our life’s journey. People matter most, not the menu or table settings. We set aside a day to celebrate, give thanks, and share our bountiful blessings. Such gestures are moments of grace that indelibly mark our lives. “To whom much is given, much is expected in return,” my parents taught me. Sharing is an expression of our gratitude, and many years and wonderful examples later, I understand such generosity is the essence of gratitude. Those convictions helped define the women I volunteered with and so many others who give generously throughout the year.

Happy Thanksgiving! Through our gratitude may we be inspired to share our time and treasures.