The last six weeks of the year fills most of our lives with rich food, fun times with family and friends, football and a pleasant pause before the rush begins again in the new year. Actually, from Thanksgiving to New Years Day, we have numerous opportunities to slow down for reflection and expressions of thankfulness. Learning to say “thank you” enriches life, doesn’t it? Too often though, we don’t stop to consider the reasons we have to be grateful.

    As you ponder your list of New Year’s resolutions, why not take a moment to complete the “gratitude ledger” printed below?

1. I’m thankful for my marriage partner because…
2. I’m grateful for each of my children because…
3. I’m thankful for my job and my work because…
4. I’m thankful for my best friend because…
5. I’m grateful for my parents because…
6. I’m thankful for a special teacher because…
7. I’m thankful for my community of faith because…
8. I’m grateful for a neighbor because…
9. I’m thankful for a recent critic because…
10. I’m thankful for a superior at work because…
11. I’m grateful for a person who works for me because…
12. I’m thankful for the in-laws in my life because…

    After you complete as many of these statements as possible, why not really follow through? Express your thanks verbally or in writing to each person you've identified as the reason for your gratitude. I promise you’ll be surprised by the results in the year ahead.