GRATITUDE--IT DOES A BRAIN GOOD!

In a culture that makes it easier to be a critic than a celebrator, where it takes growing commitment to do the opposite, how heartening to be reminded of the ennobling gift of gratitude...

Maria Popova, brainpickings.org

There is  much to be said about what gratitude does for us, how it releases dopamine, lighting up the pleasure center in our brains and programming us to look for positive instead of negative stimuli.  In essence, our brains appreciate gratitude, so the more we give thanks, the more they prod us to do so again, creating something neuroscientists call a "virtuous cycle."

Dallas Willard suggested that we pause every morning before the very first good thing we encounter--feet that move, a heart that beats, hot shower, coffee, the shining sun etc.--and briefly "bless God for it," setting the trajectory for our day.  I like that.  Not only will this energize our spirits, but it will improve our overall sense of well-being.  It is also a good start toward living out the simple, yet profound call from Scripture to:

Thanksgiving is certainly a timely reminder of a spiritual practice that both God and science tell us should be a central part of our lives all year round!  So in the spirit of the season, here are some links that can help you and your family do just that.

A NEW TWIST ON GIVING THANKS 

We are ever prone to focus on the gifts instead of the GIVER when we pause to give thanks. Learn some practical ways to turn giving thanks into true worship with these simple exercises and some attributes of God printables. Can be used all year round -- but will make a great addition to your Thanksgiving meal.

MEANINGFUL GRATITUDE QUOTES 
Here are some great quotes to enhance your Thanksgiving experience! From John Piper to The Book of Common Prayer, find out what gratitude means to other believers.

A FAMILY GRATITUDE CALENDAR

Choose one month this year to focus on God-glorifying gratitude! Find 30 or 31 things you and/or your family can give thanks for. Then fill in the calendar and post it on the refrigerator. Each evening at dinner or before bed, discuss together how that gift points out what God is like. Worship together! (This can also be a great individual exercise).

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND ...THE BEST TURKEY RECIPE EVER!
I have used this recipe for a number of years now and it is really delicious -- you cannot fail with it. It isn't terribly time-consuming, but you do have to plan a few days ahead so take a look now!

BEST BOOK ON GRATITUDE EVER

Not only is Ann Voscamp one of the most eloquent writers of our day, but her spiritual depth is profoundly moving.  If you haven't devoured this New York Times bestseller, you owe it to yourself to do so now--you can order it as well as my own books on developing your spiritual journey from my store by clicking here.  

Giving Thanks for each of you!