The Season of Gratitude: Shifting Focus from Stress to Blessings

As the leaves turn their glorious colors and the scent of cinnamon and woodsmoke fills the air, we are officially ushering in the season of gratitude. This time of year, with its traditional feasts and family gatherings, has a beautiful way of slowing us down—even just for a moment—to remind us to be profoundly thankful for all of the blessings in our lives.

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle: the perfect recipe, the travel logistics, the endless to-do list. But I invite you, as we enter Thanksgiving week, to take a conscious breath and make the deliberate choice to shift your focus. Let's pivot away from the stress of playing roles and focus instead on the core values and aspirations that truly matter for our lives and the world. Let's count our blessings, big and small.

💖 An Essential Blessing: The Gift of Friendship

Among the greatest blessings we have are the women who stand with us: our friends. They are the sounding boards, the cheerleaders, and the quiet comfort during our life transitions.

But here is a truth we must acknowledge during the holidays: this time of year can also trigger old wounds or trauma replays. The curated perfection we see on social media often hides the reality of loneliness, complicated family dynamics, or grief. For some, the pressure to be 'happy' only amplifies a deep sense of isolation.

This is where you, as a radiant woman focused on purpose, come in. Checking in on your friends during the holidays is not just a kind gesture; it's an act of profound compassion and friendship. It's about living your values out loud.

✅ Plug In: Simple Actions to Connect During the Hustle

The holiday season is busy, but we can’t let the hustle disconnect us from our essential friendships. Here are a few simple, actionable ways you can stay plugged into your circle of support:

The 5-Minute Voice Note: Skip the lengthy text or email. Record a quick voice note while commuting or unloading groceries saying, "Thinking of you, I love you, and I’m so thankful you’re in my life." It’s personal and requires minimal effort.

The ‘No-Pressure’ Coffee Date: Suggest a 15-minute drive-thru coffee date instead of a formal lunch. Meet, grab your drinks, chat in the car for a few minutes, and get back to your day. It prioritizes connection over time commitment.

The Gratitude Text Chain: Start a group text with a few close friends where the only rule is to share one small thing you are genuinely grateful for each day. It keeps the energy positive and connection flowing.

🍽️ A Seat at the Table: Extending Radical Hospitality

Now, for a question to anchor your reflection this week: Is there anyone of your friends who are alone next week?

Perhaps adding a seat at your Thanksgiving feast is in order! Hospitality doesn't require perfection; it just requires a generous spirit. An extra chair and a compassionate heart can make the biggest difference to someone who needs to feel included.

Or are YOU alone?

How about hosting a Friendsgiving Celebration of your own! It's not too late! Grab takeout, light some candles, and gather your chosen family. Create a new tradition centered on your current passions and the joy of simple togetherness. You have the power to create the celebration you desire.

Wishing You a Marvelous Thanksgiving

My beautiful friend, my wish for you is that you have a marvelous Thanksgiving focused on what really matters, and not the holiday's stresses.

As you step into this week, remember the magnificent woman you are. Realize how blessed you are for what you have. Smile often, dream big, and laugh a lot. Your joy is a gift to the world, and your friendship is a lifeline.

Grateful for YOU!