CHOOSE TO BE THANKFUL

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As Thanksgiving approaches, it's easy to get caught up in the idea of gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing laughter and creating memories. 

But for some of us, the holiday can bring up feelings of loneliness and sadness, especially if we don't have a traditional family to celebrate with.

I'll be the first to admit, the holidays can be tough when you don't have a big, boisterous family to celebrate with. 

Trust me, I know how it feels to scroll through social media and see everyone else's picture-perfect Thanksgiving dinners, while you're sitting at home feeling alone. 

But I've come to realize that Thanksgiving is so much more than just a big family gathering.

I've learned that the true essence of Thanksgiving lies in gratitude. 

It's about taking a moment to reflect on all the blessings we have in our lives, no matter how big or small. And you know what?

 Gratitude doesn't require a big family or a fancy feast. 

It's something that comes from within, and it's accessible to each and every one of us.

So, if you're feeling down this Thanksgiving because you don't have a big family to celebrate with, I want to remind you that you have so much to be thankful for. 

Think about the friends who have become your family, the moments of joy and laughter that have brightened your days, the roof over your head, and the food on your table. 

Remember, these are all reasons to be grateful.

And if you're struggling with your mental health, I want to remind you that it's okay to seek help. 

You don't have to go through it alone. 

There are people who care about you and want to support you, whether it's a friend, a therapist, or a support group. 

Take the step to reach out and ask for help. 

It's a brave and empowering thing to do.

So this Thanksgiving, let's choose to focus on the things that bring us joy and hope, rather than dwelling on the things we may be missing. 

Let's choose gratitude over self-pity, and let's remember that we are not defined by the size of our family or the lavishness of our celebration.

I want to encourage you to take a moment to write down three things you are thankful for. 

It could be something as simple as a warm cup of tea, a phone call from a friend, or a beautiful sunset. 

By focusing on the small blessings in our lives, we can shift our perspective and cultivate a spirit of gratitude.

And if you find yourself feeling alone this Thanksgiving, remember that you are not truly alone. 

There are countless others out there who may be feeling the same way, and you are part of a larger community. 

Reach out to someone who may be feeling lonely, too. 

It could be a simple text or a phone call, but it could make a world of difference to them and to you.

So, as we approach Thanksgiving, let's choose to be thankful without feeling sorry for ourselves. 

Let's embrace gratitude and spread kindness. And most importantly, let's remember that we are never truly alone, because we are all in this together.

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