There are always a few variations on old sayings, and chances are you’ve heard at least one version of “Gratitude unlocks the richness of life”.

In my own life, I am more than aware that I have everything that I need. However, it’s during moments of gratitude that I realize my true wealth. To have enough in the refrigerator is certainly enough, but to savor each bite of food in gratitude is more fulfilling. To have enough in the bank is comforting, but to realize I can spontaneously buy a gift for someone “just because” is freeing— not for any financial reason, but because I get to look forward to someone opening the gift with joy.

Every year, November surprises me all over again with her unmatched zest for life: the vibrant yellows and oranges, those luminous white skies of approaching winter, hot cocoa beginning to turn up on menus and the first crackling fires being lit. And, in this particular year, as we enjoy Thanksgiving with a second tough year behind us, gratitude truly outshines any wealth or accomplishment I could claim. My friend, I am so very grateful as I take a moment each day to stop and savor that gratitude, pausing to take in the richness of life.

Try this: set aside five minutes each day to sit in gratitude. No need to put rules on the matter; it can be something as simple as pausing to really taste your glass of morning juice and being thankful for sustenance, or making time for a noon stretch during which you count your blessings, or smiling in gratitude when you realize your to-do list is all crossed off at the end of the day. All I ask is that you take some time to find gratitude in the richness of life and by December, you will likely feel this year is going to end well.

I wish you and yours a world of gratitude and joy this Thanksgiving season!

Gino Pezzani,

Your Real Estate/Mortgage Consultant For Life