Wow. What a year it’s been. 2020 has provided us all with challenges. With the end of the year in sight, it would be really easy to just endure the remaining weeks and hope 2021 brings something better.
For some, this year has taken a lot.
For others, this year has challenged them in ways that brought them to a breaking point.
That’s why the practice of being grateful may not come as easily for some this year.
But if we look around us, both within the walls of our home and outside, we may find there are great opportunities to express our gratitude.
There are people who have given of their time, their service, and even of their joy to help us and others.
There are sunrises, sunsets, and beautiful blue skies to remind us of the beauty of God’s creation.
And even in the difficult things, some of us may have realized that we are stronger than we thought, more resourceful than we dreamed, and more grateful for things we may have taken for granted (toilet paper).
We want to help you see some of those things. That’s why we’re giving your family a challenge—a gratitude challenge.
You can use the Gratitude Challenge in a few ways.
OPTION #1: As a family, go through the chart all month long and randomly pick a circle. (Note: Don’t feel like you have to do this challenge every single day. Choose a column or row, or go through the chart in whatever way makes the most sense for your family.) Read a prompt and ask each family member to think of a person or story that comes to mind and share it with everyone.
OPTION #2: If you can’t physically be together, type out the prompt in a group text, or get together on a video call.
OPTION #3: If you want to remember your answers, fill in each box with each person’s answers. Or have each person fill in their own chart.
OPTION #4: If possible, send a thank you note, text, email, or handmade card to the people you think about to let them know you are thankful for them.
OPTION #5: Planning a Thanksgiving dinner? Go around the table and have each person pick a prompt and share about a person or story that comes to mind.
Despite what life brings, there are glimpses of good, things to be thankful for. Sometimes we just need a little help in seeing them.
Topics: Family Life
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