As the American Thanksgiving holiday approaches (Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving earlier in the month since harvests generally take place sooner in Canada), it raises an opportunity practice an attitude of gratitude. There are plenty of problems in the world, but experiences of the world are incomplete if they consistently overlook areas worthy of gratitude.
In his book on Authentic Happiness, Dr. Martin Seligman suggests a gratitude exercise. First, identify someone who contributed to your well-being and then write a letter that details the benefits you’ve experienced, including your feelings. If possible, read the letter aloud to the person you’ve identified. Dr. Seligman describes this as an emotional process, making this another opportunity to be fully present in life.
