How to Celebrate a Day to Remember
It's Patriot Day in the U.S., the National Day of Service and Remembrance on September 11.
It's generally thought of as a day to remember the nearly 3,000 victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, but it's also a time to be thankful for all of the first responders who risked their lives, and the many others who pitched in to help and comfort those who were affected by the tragedy.
We can be heroes too.
Maybe I can't run into a burning building and save someone's life, but I can do other valuable acts. It would be a better way to celebrate this day than shopping yet another sale.
Today is the perfect time to volunteer for an organization that improves the lives of others, spreading kindness and offering hope. I could also give money to fund programs at such an organization, drop off a bag of groceries at my local food closet (or some food and treats at the animal shelter), or simply pick up garbage in my neighborhood or the park.
Today is a good time to write one or more thank you notes to the people who have made my life better. If you decide to join me, your parents, grandparents, pastor, or a friend would love to hear from you. If you have children, I know their teachers would appreciate a note of thanks. An appreciative text message or social media post would undoubtedly make someone's day.
It's fire season in California, and firefighters all over the state are battling blazes. Remember them, and pray for their safety.
Wear your face mask, and be sure to thank the grocery clerk, bank teller, delivery person, or barista who serves you and wears a mask all day every day for your safety.
We're all busy, and we all have a lot of other things to do today. But a life of maximum gratitude and minimal stuff means we can always take time to appreciate all of our blessings. We never have to wait for a designated holiday to give thanks or do a kindness for someone else – we know it's always appropriate.
Just a reminder to you (and myself!) that a life of gratitude is the path to happiness and contentment.
Thank you for reading.
Thank you for writing things I find worth reading.
ReplyDeleteAwww, thank you Linda! Today we are covered in a pall of smoke and ashes, and praying for all of the firefighters battling California blazes!
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