Thanksgiving Tradition – Leaves of Gratitude

The Leaves of Thanks – There are some traditions that are timeless, and the Leaves of Gratitude is one of these kinds of traditions. We can never show enough gratitude toward each other, and the purpose of this simple tradition is to add to the splendor of the Thanksgiving meal by celebrating a grateful heart. Place a paper leaf on each plate and ask everyone to take a quiet moment before the meal begins and write at least 2 things he/she is grateful for on the leaf. Have everyone then hang the leaf on a small tree used as a centerpiece, or pile them in a small bowl or basket. Just before dessert, share what is written on the leaves. Make the moment even more special by dimming the lights and holding hands. The more often we express out loud what we are thankful for, the more everyone around us will know just exactly how much we really love and appreciate him/her.

We extend this tradition throughout November by placing the “Thanksgiving Tree” in the middle of our table as a centerpiece. My husband and I desire to cultivate a daily mindset of gratitude – thankfulness even in the smallest of details of  life. It’s easy to express gratitude once a year at Thanksgiving for family and friends, but by cultivating an attitude of gratitude all year long, we begin to see a broader view of the many blessings we each have been given (even when it doesn’t “feel” like it).

After Thanksgiving is finished, collect the leaves and place them in a Thanksgiving book. Bring it out every year to reminisce on the many years of blessings.

Don’t miss my delightfully easy, but meaningful Thanksgiving tradition – Gratitude Rolls. A great twist to the Leaves of Thanks.

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