We are entering that time of year when we give formal thanks for all that we have and all that we are becoming. I have a daily ritual that I would like to share with you. Each day when I wake up, the first thing that I say to myself is, “I am grateful I woke up this morning. There are folks who did not. What am I here to do today?” There are many that live in a negative space, focused on lack and what they think they are owed. Perhaps they had an unhappy childhood or come from circumstances that were less than ideal. Unfortunately, they are stuck in the past and can’t seem to move into a different thinking pattern. It is said, “change your thinking, change your life.” And part of the change requires an attitude of gratitude. It is amazing what a change in attitude can do for your everyday life. Try this exercise for 30 days. It is called the Mirror Exercise. Begin your day by standing in front of the mirror and appreciating you and your life. Say out loud what you are grateful for and that you love yourself. Some folks do this at the end of the day. It helps change your mind about the idea of gratitude and what you can be grateful for everyday. The gratitude that you express daily for those around you and for yourself will have a big impact on how you go about each day. You will find yourself smiling more and giving thanks for all the small things in your life. Today, express gratitude to someone that you haven’t spoken to in awhile and thank them for being a part of your journey. Continue on with your daily ritual and remember to begin each day from a heartfelt space. Namaste.