You know that point in a movie or book when the character realizes what exactly they have and how precious and valuable it is? The “it’s a wonderful life” George Bailey moment running through the streets like a crazy person so thankful- where when that which was taken from them is returned and they are changed?
I guess my question is … can you get that- that depth of appreciation and gut wrenching thankfulness without some type of incident or trauma triggering it?
Every day I tell myself what I am thankful for and now my 5 year old asks daily “What are you thankful for?” but makes “thankful” into 3 syllables and only Ben and I can understand what he is saying, but we answer him as truthfully as we can.
I want to understand and appreciate every day- to embrace pain, grief and the glory.
Sometimes the grittiness of life rubs me raw, but other times it’s sanding down my rough edges. I feel illuminated and naked before my own flaws and blink a lot so I don’t lose focus or fall back into apathy.
This Christmas season it is my goal to be aware of all that I have, feel it deep inside and have it reflected in my actions and attitude. I’m sure that sounds cheesy and a bit Hallmark card-ish- but I feel like it’s important for me to live this way. Things aren’t always good, but that cheesy “happiness is a choice” and “always wanting what you have” are things to wrap around my heart and filter each day and interactions through.
I think it’s more of a fight to be happy sometimes, not just a choice and I want this season to be intentionally lived.
How do you stay happy this time of year? How do you create a spirit of thankfulness and gratitude in your home during the most materialistic time of year?