Preparing for the holidays can be joyful but stressful at the same time. Planning, shopping, cooking, and decorating can make you anxious, family members can drive you nuts, and some people even suffer depression around this time. But thanksgiving is also an opportunity to give thanks, Gail Saltz, M.D. reminds us, not for what you have, but for who you have.
Having people you love and who love you back is probably your most valuable asset. Strong relationships nourish you, provide support, allow you to give meaningfully and are a frequent source of joy. It is true that every relationship has its struggles and tough times but, generally speaking, effort put in equals enjoyment gotten out of it.
On this holiday many of you will be with people you love but don’t get to see all the time. It’s worth some extra effort to spend real time talking and listening, and also appreciating each other. You are making new memories to sustain you over the times apart and they build and grown that relationship. Take a minute to tell that person how thankful you are to have them in your life. It will make your thanksgiving really special.
These words of wisdom can be applied to parents, grandparents, siblings, relatives, and close friends, and most importantly that one special person in your life, be it a spouse, fiance, or boyfriend/girlfriend.
Be sure to express your love and thanks in a special way this Thanksgiving. At these time of financial difficulty, it does not require an expensive gift or extravagant dinner. A thoughtful card or hand-made gift can be so much more meaningful, ensuring that his holiday is one you will remember forever.
Photo from andrew wilson photography