Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Being thankful at dinnertime

During November, our family started a thankful moment at dinner time. Each night we would take turns telling what we were thankful for. Most of the kids latched on to a few things they always used, but we encouraged them to think of new things.

Andrew was thankful for our fish for the first two weeks and the Grinch the next two weeks.

Scott was thankful for our house and clothes and food.

Rachel was thankful for the first Heavenly Father who ever lived ("because that includes everything!").

Dawn varied greatly, including scriptures, prophets, food, clothing, school, electricity, etc.

The side benefit of this ritual was an increased calm and happiness during dinner. So every few days when dinner is especially loud and raucous or whiny and sad, we whip out the thanksgiving tradition. It always helps us focus on something beside our busy days, our personal wants, the yucky onions in the dinner, the ugly yellow cup, or the loud vying for attention.

I highly recommend it. Give it a try tonight.

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