With Thanksgiving just around the corner, this is a perfect time to reflect on the things we are most thankful for in our life. These are difficult economic times and troubled days in our world. If we take a step back and consider what is positive in our lives, we will not only benefit our own selves, but those around us as well.

Here are a few simple yet significant things to be thankful for

~ Family

So often, we take our families for granted. We don't show one another how thankful we are for their love and support. Regardless of how large or small your family is, each person is significant and special. Families are the ones who stand beside us in good times and bad, they laugh with and at us. Treasure the times together whether it is a celebration or "clean the garage day". Be thankful for family.

~ Friends

Friends bring joy and fun to our lives. A good friend provides support, encouragement and love. Be thankful for the laughter you share with your friend. Be reliable and willing to lend a hand when necessary and be dependable. Friends help us celebrate all the amazing things in our lives. They bring balance to busy days and one can never have too many friends. Never take a friend for granted.

~ Home

We should be appreciative of the place we call "home." Be it a small studio apartment or a four-bedroom home, we are lucky to have a place to rest. A place we feel safe and secure. To have a warm bed is more than many have, and at the end of the day, a great blessing indeed.

~ Health

The benefit of good health is tremendous. The normal, everyday aches and pains often get us down. Accepting these aches as part of being active will give you a better perspective. The fact that we are able to get out of our warm beds, step into a hot shower and prepare to leave our homes for work is plenty to set the tone for the day. Be thankful that all you have are minor aches and pains, take care of yourself and be ever so grateful for good health.

~ Freedom

For every day, we are able to walk out of our front doors into the sunlight and travel from place to place, be thankful. For those who are far from their families, friends and their homes fighting and risking their lives for you and me, be thankful. When you see a man/woman in uniform, take a minute to make eye contact and smile. By doing this small act of kindness we give them one more reason for being in the military. Enjoy your freedom each and every day.

In our hectic, busy and complicated lives, take a few minutes each day to remember all the wonderful things you have in your life. On those days that are most difficult, stop and reflect on the simple things that are taken for granted and let gratitude lift your spirits.

Learn more about this author, Peggy Lindgren.
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