As a society, we set aside a day each year to gather, feast and be thankful. We are free to join the celebration in any way we see fit. On Thanksgiving Day, we each celebrate our own unique version of gratitude. Even though most homes will be feasting on turkey and all the trimmings, some will share lasagna or enchiladas or vegan fare. As we gather with our families and friends, we are also free to be kind and loving or to be angry and resentful. Holiday get-togethers in close quarters have been known to be experiences which range anywhere from wonderful to disastrous. To help you with the upcoming holiday season, I’d like to share some thoughts about freedom which may make you think about your actions and reactions.
May you have the freedom to be present in the moment and be able to see and hear what is going on right now. May you be free to let go of the judgment of what should be or what used to be or what may be. Often when we gather as adult children, we revert to childish behavior because of buttons which are pushed by our parents or siblings. Ex-spouses and blended families add layers of emotional triggers. The past is over. Think about who you are now and act accordingly.
May you have the freedom to speak your truth and say what you think. May you be free to let go of concerns about what anyone else thinks about your truth. Remember that it’s okay to let others know what you think. Your thoughts are important. If you don’t value them, why would anyone else?
May you have the freedom to feel your true emotions without fear. May you be free to let go of beliefs about what anyone else feels about your feelings. Your feelings are important. The more you express your feelings, the more confident you become. Your feelings are unique to you and no one has the right to judge them.
May you have the freedom to ask for what you want. May you let go of the need to ask permission. When we learn to ask for what we want, we very often get it! Give yourself permission.
May you have the freedom to take a risk or a leap of faith so that you may be better, stronger, wiser.
May you let go of the need to think small in order to be secure. We limit ourselves with limited thinking. Start to dream big and expect that you will grow wings.
And since no one else can do it for you, may you grant yourself the freedom to be you…the very best you can imagine. You will feel gratitude in every atom of your being. You will realize that Thanksgiving Day is a state of mind rather than a place in time. Join the celebration every moment of every day.