Last week a friend pointed out the importance of celebrating progress.
Her comment came at a time when many people we care about are focused on “what is not” instead of on “what is”.
[Tweet “2 steps forward and 1 step back is still progress.”]
Her words were a waving caution flag reminding me that:
Focusing on the steps back, on the struggle, or on what is not… Fuels negativity and slows progress.
I live in a place that looks like this:
I crave places that look like this:
Our current environment sometimes feels like this:
I crave environments that make me feel like this:
What are the most cherished gifts you have ever received?
For me that list is easy. They are the most thought-filled gifts and probably some of the least expensive ones I’ve been given.
This year I am especially inspired by two expat families who are determined to make Christmas memories for their children in spite of the land that we live in. For little cost, they have created memories that their family will cherish for years to come:
One named a plant Mohammed, created their own decorations, and turned that plant into their Christmas tree last year. Their kids liked it so much that this year when they had the option of a more traditional tree, they wanted Mohammed!
In late November 2012 we had just said yes to our first expat adventure. We were facing massive unknowns, planning for the transition that this change would bring and choosing our attitudes.
One year later as I reflected on that season in our lives, the thoughts and feelings came back in a flood of emotions.
In order to fully share that experience I have to take you back in time…
Although it sounds like something that small children can do, it takes a clear vision of the value of gratitude and a strong mind to practice thankfulness.
Below are 5 powerful reasons for adults and children to practice thanksgiving:
Gratitude gets us through the hard stuff. Max Lucado
