A Thankfuller Thanksgiving

I've said it before, and I'll say it again...grateful people are happier, healthier people. And since we're stuffing our mouths with all kinds of foodie goodness this Thanksgiving, we might want to cut back in other areas. Say, take a fast from whining and complaining. Not only will we reap the benefits of our improved attitude, our friends and relatives and those gathered at our table will bask in our pleasantness.

In that gratitude mode, let me go visual on you:

I'm thankful that my husband, on a trip to the West Bank last week, is safely home. He also picked up this extremely awesome Palestinian nativity, complete with dividing wall and watchtower.

I'm so thankful that we finally got our front door fixed. The knob was all wonky, and we could barely get in and out of the house. We even joked that, if anyone broke the window, then reached through to turn the knob from the inside, it wouldn't have helped a bit. Ralph from Security Safe & Lock, you're our hero.

I'm thankful for family and friends and community. They keep us alive. If you don't think so, read this book:

When we connect, really connect, with our family or with a friend, we're doing ourselves good. We were designed for it. Maybe you're not looking forward to everyone who will be gathered around that Thanksgiving table--you be the one to listen to so-and-so brag about herself/complain unceasingly (even ask a few questions, as pure frosting!). You be the one to appreciate and encourage that person who is always trying to compete with you. What does it cost? Nothing. In fact, we get to let go of our own agenda and flit around, adding to others' enjoyment by seeing them and listening to them, instead of resenting them.

And, if you haven't been invited to a Thanksgiving dinner, host one! Invite those new neighbors or those co-workers. Food has always been my love language. And if I really love you, I'll make you something, using the best ingredients.

Have a happy holiday. (And look--I resisted putting in the link I saw, about how many calories we serve up on our Thanksgiving plate. Because who cares, really? Thanksgiving is about the Village Effect, not our diets.) Gobble gobble!