Duality is two sides of a coin,  a situation in which two opposite ideas or feelings exist simultaneously, and life teaches us that lesson every so often. Yet, even with its commercial footing and its true history. Or that it is a day of mourning for many; the sentiment of this specific holiday is to express gratitude. So, this Thanksgiving, I hope you found enough to be thankful for. Gratitude is showing appreciation for, and it is self-contentment. It is kindness, acceptance of life as it arises, and striving for better and not more.

In a consumer culture where more is better, and so many things are influencing us –  it’s impossible not to feel like we’re missing out on something, and it is easy to feel like our lives should be this or that. Or that we should have more. You’ve probably heard this tune a million times, but focusing on things we don’t have genuinely generates unhappiness. Do you remember when you needed what you currently have? Do you remember what you felt when you got it?

 Being happy with what you have doesn’t mean that you don’t want to improve your life or don’t want to be better or do better. It just means that you don’t let what you don’t have to stop you from being attentive and appreciating what you do have. That is thankfulness. That is gratefulness. Dualism is life, the good with the bad, joy and discontent, and life always takes things from us –  it can, does, and sometimes it will.  It’s not easy. I know, and it’s even more complicated when things are falling apart around us. But remember being healthy, not worrying about where you are sleeping for the night, and not worrying about where your next meal is coming from already makes you better off than most worldwide. Note your favors. Account for your blessings. Reflect, and set your intentions. Keep pushing and be kind.

What are you thankful for? Family? Friends? A healthy life? Success?  Perhaps. But remember, gratitude is year-round.

Until next time, xoxo.

Sherdley S