“I would maintain that thanks are the highest form of thought; and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” ― G.K. Chesterton

An 18-year-old was killed in a car crash this morning here in Houston. Police think it was street racing. All I could think about was a family gathering around the table on Thursday with an empty chair.

Will there be an empty chair at your table this year?

As we travel more miles down the road, we all realize how important it is to take the time to say what needs to be said to people in your life – to not let precious time slip away.

What needs to be said to that significant person in your life? Maybe to someone who has made a difference in someone else’s life? It could be a stranger that keeps crossing your path. A quiet person in your world that you can see would benefit from a little appreciation. What thanksgiving need to be said? Why don’t you be the one to do it?

What are you waiting for?

Almost everyone needs to hear a thank-you. These are becoming too rare. These words can be life changing for both parties. The giver and the receiver. Expressing and receiving thanks increases the health and happiness of both parties. It can also change the attitudes of bystanders – people who witness thankfulness. Gratitude has a ripple effect on both friends and strangers in our lives. It works in numerous ways to improve everyone’s life. Being thankful and expressing it out loud is one of the best ways to spread well-being where you are and even to people you’ll never meet.

What are you waiting for?

Sometimes, I think only the big things deserve a thanks. When people do something extraordinary, that’s when they expect and deserve my appreciation. But that’s not really the best way to live. What I want to start doing is looking for all the everyday and ordinary that need to be thanked. What if I don’t see that person again? Maybe tomorrow won’t get here. Just saying thanks here or there might be just what God wants from me.

Who needs a holiday?

What am I waiting for?

“Gratitude is the seed of gladness.” ― Lailah Gifty Akita