“The essence of all beautiful art, all great art, is gratitude.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
Thanksgiving is the time of year when I become nostalgic for the days of elementary school when we would create turkeys by tracing our hands, and learn new and exciting words such as cornucopia. As a child you’re also taught that this holiday’s origins revolve around the European settlers and First Nations breaking bread together. Now I’m not going to get political with this post, but focus mainly on the name of this day – Thanksgiving.
I think I say ‘thank you’ at least 5 to 10 times each day. The phrase is a part of my daily speech, as I’m sure it is for many others. But how thankful am I really? Is it just something to say? I think it’s important to reflect on what you are truly grateful for, not just on Thanksgiving, but everyday. Often I find myself stressed and overwhelmed with work and life in general, but when I stop and think about all the positive things in my life, there is a sense of comfort. But how often do I express to those who provide me with these happy thoughts how grateful I am? I strongly believe that more people need to give thanks wholeheartedly and truthfully to those who have made an impact in their life. A simple ‘thank you’ can go a long way and make someone’s day. I know that when I’m finished teaching a lesson and student thanks me, it makes me feel appreciated and validated.
This Thanksgiving I challenge you to reflect on what you are truly thankful for and to actually make an effort to say it aloud.
Thank you to my loving husband, Brandon. You are my best friend, my partner in crime, and there is no one I rather have by my side. You are supportive, creative, hard working, and understanding. The love I have for you is truly indescribable.
Thank you so much Mom and Dad. The two of you taught me to work hard, have fun, and appreciate life. I love you both so much.
Thank you to my sister, Amanda. You are so talented and my inspiration to be creative. Also, thank you Tristan, for being the best brother in law ever. Thanks to both of you for bringing my incredible (and adorable) nephew, Imriel, into the world.
Thank you to my mother in law and grandmother in law (is that a term???) You are always so proud of me and Brandon and are always there to support us.
Thank you to all my colleagues and students. Teaching has its challenges, but it also has its rewards. I have supportive coworkers, and work in a positive environment that allows me to teach what I am passionate about and love, and to reach out and promote social justice. I have taught some pretty amazing students who have educated me too.
Thank you Ken G. for giving me the chance to see Europe for the first time. Since 2010, I have seen so many incredible places and have learned so much from these adventures!! I’m so fortunate for the opportunities I have had exploring the world.
Thank you to my two best friends Sara and Julianna who I have known my entire life. Even though we don’t see each other all the time, I know we’ll always have each other’s backs.
I am also thankful for my fur baby Boris, my home, my country, and simply this beautiful universe we live in.
What are you thankful for?
