Gratitude -- Without the Attitude

For several years now, I’ve started Thanksgiving dinner by asking each person to share something he or she is thankful for. I'm met by groans (from the kids) or eye-rolling (from the uncomfortable adults). Rarely do more than a couple of people say anything.

First, you’ll have to do a little research.  Using the Internet or reference books of quotations, find several quotes about gratitude. You can use the words of famous people from the past or present, poems, song lyrics or traditional sayings.  You may already have some family favorites of your own. (My mother: "Just be grateful that you have your health.")  Keep in mind the mix of ages and reading levels in your group. Check our Resources (below) for suggestions.

Print the quotations on construction paper cut in the shape of autumn leaves, and put the leaves in a holiday bowl.

For younger children, who are pre- or early readers, find (or take with your digital camera) pictures of people, places and things that have special meaning for the children—a grandparent, favorite place, pet, new baby or an image of the child with her mom or dad. Attach these pictures to leaves of a different color (to distinguish from the ones that require reading) and mix them into the bowl.

As your friends and family help each other understand what the quotations really mean, they will bring up examples from their own lives.  And you'll have gratitude in abundance -- without the groans.