In Part I of this Gratitude journey, I suggested some introspective activities you can do to become more mindful of your blessings and the things you are grateful for. (If you missed it, check out last month’s blog HERE!) Today’s post is all about interacting with others and how it can help underline thankfulness today and every day.

1.) Ask a kid what they are thankful for. Kids often get to the root causes and simplest answers quickly. Hearing their responses may help you focus on the simple things. For me, it could be something that seems as simple as grabbing a bite with my husband or for having two fur-babies that exhibit pure, unsolicited joy when I walk through the door. And let’s face it, kids are honest beyond adult comprehension; so if there is something you need to consider, they’ll be the first to tell you.

2.) Ask someone how you can help. Having knowledge or an ability that bridges the gap for someone is a reason to be grateful. And the blessing is twofold – being thankful that you have the skill, and also giving thanks that you can be a resource to others. So, share your gifts and talents with others in need; you’ll help someone in need and discover new opportunities to give thanks. #SharingIsCaring

3.) Give away something. It could be time, money, materials, whatever; but it needs to be of significant value to you. Giving money when your pocket books are fat but your time is limited (or vice versa) is easy, but it may not drive home the sentiment of gratitude for what you have. The value of a resource is based on the scarcity of the resource, as well as the needs of other people for that same resource. So, when I start to lose sight of the abundant blessings and favor that have been on my life since my first breath, I schedule time on my calendar to give things away. Seriously, there is no better way to pull inventory on all that I have that I might take for granted than to start giving some of my possessions away, whether it’s time, money, apparel, food, etc. I would also encourage you try this on days that are suppose to be “all about you”. Try giving folks something you cherish on one of your special days…for me, one of those things is yoga and I try to gift that to as many folks as I can. Giving re-centers me, re-prioritizes the things I think I value, and blesses someone else in the process.  There is a biblical scripture that says it is better to give than to receive. I think this is a tenet within all of the spiritually conscious canons because there is no room for new if you’re stuffed full (my personal belief); and believe me, the Creator has so much more to give to you so you can give to others.

The bottom line… this isn’t an exhaustive list; it is a list to help your creative juices flow with a focus on gratitude. There are so many ways to strengthen your gratitude muscle and stay thankful, grounded, and in touch with gratitude. You can try these, or develop your own, but I’d love for you to share with me what you have found to be helpful in keeping gratitude top of mind.

My only ask is that no matter what, in all ways and always, give thanks.