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The Grateful Donut

Friends,

When it comes to gratitude, I prefer to focus on the little things we often take for granted. Specific things like the long hug I shared with my daughter last night after Thanksgiving dinner, or my childhood friend’s text message to share a photo of his Friday donut, that woke me up this morning (so much better than an alarm clock). The contrast of the warm blankets over my body with the extra-crisp air that fills my lungs, as I write this note (I forgot to turn the heat back on after last night's capacity Thanksgiving gathering); or the anticipation of hearing your response and thoughts after reading it. These specific moments give meaning to the broad categories used to generate thankfulness lists. My earlier sentiment could also be expressed as “family, friends, peace and hope” —accurate, but sterile and trite. By framing the things for which I’m grateful as specific moments, I quickly realize the five to ten broad categories they fall into are actually a litany of smile-inducing moments filled with pure goodness. I won’t bore you with a long list — you get the picture — but will share my wish that the next time you’re enjoying a Boston cream-filled donut, you will take a brief pause to fully appreciate the moment.

Happy Friday!

Photo Credit: Stephen Andert (great way to wake up!)

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